Cupid on Horseback

Francesco Fanelli

before 1639 (model), 1640–64 (cast)

Cupid on Horseback by Francesco Fanelli

Medium

Copper alloy, covered with a dark brown lacquer patina.

Dimensions

H. 15.3 cm, l. 20.4 cm.

Classification

Metalwork-Bronze

Department

Robert Lehman Collection

Museum

Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY

Credit

Robert Lehman Collection, 1975

Accession Number

1975.1.1400

Tags

HorsesCupid

Art Historical Context

Behold the whimsical *Cupid on Horseback by Francesco Fanelli, captivating small-scale bronze from the 17th century. The model for this piece was crafted before 1639, casts produced between 1640 and 1664, placing it squarely in the Baroque era's love for dynamic, subjects. At just 15.3 cm high and 20.4 cm long, copper alloy sculpture captures the Roman god of love—playful Cupid—astride a rearing horse, evoking movement and youthful exuberance perfect for a collector's tabletop. Fanelli's mastery shines in the medium: a copper alloy treated with a dark brown lacquer patina, which lends a rich,...

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