Partially silver-plated copper relief
Size without frame: 23 cm wide × 28 cm high
19th century

The relief depicts Venus seated while Cupid leans toward her, suggesting a moment of interaction between the two deities.

The design is based on a drawing by Michelangelo for a painting by Pontormo, housed in the Galleria dell’Accademia, Florence. The original work was commissioned by Bartolomeo Bettini, a Florentine merchant and banker.

The composition has been interpreted as representing the contrast between earthly love and celestial love.