“Primavera” by Sandro Botticelli

“Primavera” by Sandro Botticelli depicts a group of figures from classical mythology in a garden, brought together by Botticelli as an allegory based on the promised renewal of Spring and the seasons. The meaning of this masterpiece is debated by art historians, as the composition draws from many classical and Renaissance literary sources.

Viewed from right to left, at the right is Zephyrus, god of the west wind, who kidnaps the nymph Chloris, whom he later marries, and she becomes the goddess of Spring. Chloris the nymph overlaps Flora, the goddess she transforms into, as her future state, of Flora, is shown scattering or collecting roses from the ground. In the centre stands Venus, gazing at the viewer and appears to be blessing the scene or cycle. The trees behind her form a broken arch and the blindfolded Cupid aims his bow to the left. On the left of the painting the Three Graces, are joining hands in a dance; however, one of them has noticed Mercury. She is the target of cupids arrow. At the left Mercury, clothed in red with a sword and a helmet raises his rod towards the emerging clouds.

Botticelli has created a garden scenery, which he has detailed with hundreds of flowers and plant species. The costumes with which he has clothed his figures are versions of dress or theatrical costumes from contemporary Florence. Similar to his later mythological painting of “The Birth of Venus”, this allegorical composition’s primary appeal is its visual beauty. The debated elements of this composition add to the mystery and allure of this painting.