Education of Cupid
1525
Correggio’s 'Education of Cupid' is a playful mythological scene where Venus, the goddess of love, watches over her son Cupid as he learns his ABCs from Mercury. Notice how Venus stands completely nude, her pale skin glowing against the dark, leafy background, while Mercury sports his iconic winged helmet and a mischievous grin. The little cherub in the center is busy studying a scroll, proving that even the god of love had to go to school! Correggio was a master of soft, sensual lighting, and you can see his signature style in the smooth, almost glowing skin of the figures. This painting is a perfect example of the Italian Renaissance's love for classical myths mixed with a touch of cheeky humor.
Location: National Gallery, London