LOVE & POETRY AT THE ASHMOLEAN TALK 1

This talk is both in-person in the Headley Lecture Theatre and online via Zoom

Light refreshments will be served from 10am, when the Museum doors open before the in-person talk starts at 10.30am

Booking is required, tickets are £15 in-person and £10 online. Book below

With Professor Catherine Whistler, Honorary Curator, Ashmolean Museum and Professor of the History of European Art, Emeritus Research Fellow, St Johns College  

Professor Catherine Whistler will discuss Titian’s depiction of the power of love in his celebrated painting of Cupid balancing on the back of a roaring lion.  

Her talk will highlight the painting’s original function as a ‘cover’ to conceal another picture – a portrait of a Venetian noblewoman. Catherine’s research revealed that the ‘The Triumph of Love’ originally belonged to Titian’s patron and friend, the Venetian merchant and collector, Gabriele Vendramin.

Professor Whistler will delve into the identity of the woman in the hidden portrait, looking at the sonnets written in her praise and exploring how the poetry and ‘The Triumph of Love' chime together.

The Triumph of Love by Titian – WA2008_89

This impressive oil painting by Titian is a highlight of the Ashmolean's Italian Renaissance Gallery 43 where it's on display.

The talk will be recorded, and the recording will be shared with all ticketholders following the event.

MORE LOVE & POETRY TALKS

• 13 Jun at 3.30pm: Talk 2: Renaissance bronzes
• 25 Jun at 3.30pm: Talk 3: Greek mythology