The artwork, titled “Sleeping Cupid,” was painted by Caravaggio in 1608. Executed in oil on canvas, it belongs to the Baroque and Tenebrism art movements. This mythological painting, measuring 71 x 105 cm, is currently housed in the Palazzo Pitti in Florence, Italy.
“Sleeping Cupid” depicts a young, naked Cupid, the Roman god of love, in a state of peaceful slumber. Reclining on a surface, his body is illuminated dramatically against a stark, dark backdrop, showcasing Caravaggio’s mastery of chiaroscuro. Cupid’s limbs are relaxed, and his face is serene, radiating innocence and vulnerability. His bow, quiver, and arrows, classical symbols of his divine role, are subtly positioned near him, contributing to the composition’s serene yet poignant ambiance. The feather falling above his resting form imbues a sense of ethereality and transience, highlighting the delicate and transient nature of youth and love. The overall composition exudes a somber and contemplative air, characteristic of Caravaggio’s profound artistic expression.
