Primavera (Spring) by Sandro Botticelli


“Primavera” (Spring) is a painting by Sandro Botticelli (1445 -1510). On the right side of the painting is Zephyrus, the Greek god of the west wind, a messenger of spring. He is abducting the nymph Chloris who is also associated with spring. After Zephyrus marries Chloris she becomes the goddess Flora. This is the figure standing next to Chloris. Flora is the goddess of flowers, blossoms and spring. In the center of the painting stands the Roman goddess Venus (Aphrodite in Greek mythology). Venus is the goddess of love, beauty and fertility. Above her head floats her son Cupid, the god of attraction and desire. To her left are the Three Graces, sisters who accompany Venus. At the far left of the painting stands Mercury, the messenger of the gods and guide to the underworld. In Roman mythology the month of March was associated with Zephyrus and the month of April with Venus. The month of May is associated with Mercury (his mother’s name was Maia).

Deeper dive

“Concealed lung anatomy in Botticelli’s masterpieces The Primavera and The Birth of Venus”

“Spring is Fragrant and so is Venus – Botticelli’s Primavera Explained by the Sense of Smell”
“The Esotericism in Sandro Botticelli’s La Primavera”

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