Mars and Venus United by Love 1570s Paolo Veronese (Paolo Caliari) Italian In this visually opulent and sensual painting, Cupid binds Mars (the god of war) to Venus (the goddess of love) with a love knot. It celebrates the civilizing and nurturing effects of love, as milk flows from Venuss breast and Marss warhorse is restrained. Possibly commissioned by Emperor Maximilian II, the painting was owned by Emperor Rudolf II in Prague by 1621, along with other mythological works by the artist. A masterpiece of light and color, works such as this had an enduring impact on later artists including Velázquez and Giambattista Tiepolo. Listen to experts illuminate this artwork's story Listen Play or pause #5177. Mars and Venus United by Love Supported by Bloomberg Philanthropies We're sorry, the transcript for this audio track is not available at this time. We are working to make it available as soon as possible.. Mars and Venus United by Love 437891