Allegory with Venus and Cupid, by Agnolo di Cosimo also known by "Bronzino." The painting is known as Mannerist Art, which refers to by definition as "distortion of elements such as scale and perspective." As the text indicates, if each image was displayed individually the painting would not be so confusing, however, I was drawn to it because of its ambiguous nature. This painting is convoluted, however I can see how the painting was associated with the seven deadly sins, as it reminded me painting of my own shortcomings as a human being. For example, the leering gaze of Cupid into the face of Venus insinuates something that could be considered lustful. The man with his arm extended appears to be angry as we grips the curtain with a firm hand, and the woman who looks old and haggard, but having a desire to be attractive to others could indicate pride (vanity). The renaissance era was definitely a time when religion, and spiritually took precedence in art. Perhaps this is why many courtiers interpreted this painting as something resembling the seven sins. I believe we all engage in some type of deadly sin. Whether its jealousy or envy, eating too much, or just being flat out lazy, I think we can all say we have been guilty of some kind of transgression.
