Venus Genetrix Essay

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Artwork from all around the world becomes existent through inspiration and or influences of culture having an impact on the reasoning behind the artworks coming of be. Along the way, cultures may also receive inspiration through other cultures resulting in similarities in the outcome of the artwork. The Marble Statue of Aphrodite, the so-called Venus Genetrix comes from the Roman culture although resembles a replication of a Greek bronze statue of the late 5th century B.C. This sculpture was developed by the sculptor Polykleitos in the mid-fifth century B.C. and the dimensions consist of H. 59 1/2 in. (151.1 cm.) Although being a replication it is believed to be made around 1st - 2nd century A.D. during the imperial period. Though the original …show more content…

Marble Statue of Aphrodite, the so-called Venus Genetrix, stands shifting her body on one leg as though to make it seem she is about to step forward. Covered by a thin garment, it brings a form of illusion as if she is nude showing all the womanly curves of her body to be recognized. Although wearing such garment, one breast is covered while the other is shown to be bare. The bare left breast would seem to be an indication of what has to come of motherhood and the consequence of love. When it comes to the Figure of Isis-Aphrodite she is also standing, nude, and is dressed with elaborate jewelry pieces. On top of her head, she wears an exaggerated version of a crown described to be one of an Egyptian Greco - Roman divinities. She also stands in a traditional Egyptian style pose. Her arms fall to her side and she shows no particular facial expression. From a symbol on her crown, we get to recognize her as the goddess Isis. Although resembling an Egyptian goddess, the sculpture shows aspects of Aphrodite. Her pubic area is emphasized along with a swollen belly area to represent birth and fertility. Both compositions show various signs of symbolism, while fertility being a repetitive factor thus being of artwork of

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