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William Edward Frost (1810-1877) Cupid Drinking from a Pool

Creator: William Edward Frost (Attributed)
Offered by: Kulik Selzer

Description
Cupid Drinking from a Pool. William Edward Frost (1810-1877)
Oil on canvas, transferred to board.

Cupid is shown drinking from the Hippocrene Spring—mythically linked to the Muses and a source of poetic inspiration and creative flow.

Frost achieved the ethereal glow emanating from the cherub's radiant skin through a warm underpainting of reds and ochres, overlaid with delicate glazes. The figure appears to be lit from within, enhancing its otherworldly and transcendent quality. The cherub’s soft, rounded limbs and radiant skin convey a sense of innocence and spiritual presence.

This depiction of Cupid may appear innocent to modern viewers, though a bare-bottomed cherub was considered relatively risqué in the prudish climate of early Victorian England. Only later in the century, with the rise of the Pre-Raphaelite and Aesthetic movements, did nudes become generally more accepted. Nevertheless, Frost’s refined and modest portrayals were popular, and he enjoyed a financially successful career as a painter.

More Information

Origin:	England
Period:	19th Century
Materials:	Oil on Canvas transferred to board
Condition:	Good.
Creation Date:	Circa 1850
Styles / Movements:	Old Master
Incollect Reference #:	809843

Dimensions

W.	17.13 in;	H.	13.39 in;	D.	1.57 in;
W.	43.5 cm;	H.	34 cm;	D.	4 cm;

Message from Seller:

Kulik Selzer specializes in curating modern libraries on visual culture and design, as well as sourcing exceptional pieces of modern design and decorative arts. Viewings are available by appointment at our showrooms in London and Rancho Santa Fe. Contact us at 858.269.2422 or email babette@kulikselzer.com.