Amor sulla Bilancia
Lorenzo Lotto·c. 1518
Historical Context
Cupid on the Scale by Lotto around 1518 is an allegorical subject that departs from the predominantly biblical narrative of the intarsia cycle. The inclusion of classical allegorical subjects alongside scriptural narratives reflects the Renaissance humanist tradition that sought to harmonize pagan and Christian wisdom. Characteristic of the artist's mature approach, the work displays nervous, charged atmosphere in portraits, symbolic objects placed with enigmatic purpose, eclectic absorption of influences from Germany, Raphael, and Giorgione, restless spatial invention.
Technical Analysis
The allegorical composition is rendered with Lotto’s characteristic clarity and bold coloring. The symbolic subject is treated with the same visual energy he brings to his narrative biblical scenes.
