Venus and Adonis from a set of Mythological Subjects after Raphael

Venus and Adonis from a set of Mythological Subjects after Raphael is a complex textile work created between 1686 and 1690, based on designs by the High Renaissance master, Raphael (Raffaello Sanzio or Santi). This exquisite woven panel utilizes a highly refined technique, combining wool, silk, and shimmering silver thread. The dense construction, detailed by the high warp count of 21-24 warps per inch (8 per cm.), showcases the exceptional skill required in translating a seminal Renaissance painting or print into a durable and luxurious woven format during the late 17th century.

The subject depicts the famous Ovidian scene featuring the mythological lovers, Venus and Adonis. The work captures the moment the goddess, shown attended by winged putti and birds, attempts to dissuade her mortal lover, Adonis, from the hunt-a prophetic warning that foreshadows his tragic death by a wild boar. The scene is enriched by naturalistic details, including the flanking hunting dogs and lush foliage, grounding the dramatic narrative. The enduring popularity of Raphael’s compositions ensured that they were frequently copied and reinterpreted across different media centuries after their initial creation.

Classified strictly as a textile, this piece is a testament to the European tradition of valorizing canonical art sources through luxury craft production. The meticulous detail achieved in the figures, along with the rich texture provided by the silver thread, elevates the weaving beyond a mere reproduction. This significant example of late 17th-century decorative art, preserving a vital link between Renaissance design and Baroque weaving techniques, is held within the esteemed collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art.