Loading

Candelabrum with Aphrodite

5th–6th century C.E.

The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art

The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art
Kansas City, Missouri, United States

Our partially clad Aphrodite holds in one hand a mirror as she applies some make-up. On each of the three supporting feet below, swimming sea-creatures—precursors of mermen—hold young women.

How to explain all this imagery? According to some scholars, the sea creatures are amorously embracing the women as Aphrodite prepares herself for a comparable night of love—just as the owner of this lampstand would do as she applied her own make-up by the light of this sumptuous work.

Show lessRead more
  • Title: Candelabrum with Aphrodite
  • Creator Nationality: American
  • Date Created: 5th–6th century C.E.
  • Physical Dimensions: w304.8 x h508 x d254 in
  • Type: Sculpture
  • Rights: Purchase: William Rockhill Nelson Trust, Purchase: William Rockhill Nelson Trust
  • Medium: Bronze
  • Culture: Egyptian
The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art

Get the app

Explore museums and play with Art Transfer, Pocket Galleries, Art Selfie, and more

Interested in Visual arts?

Get updates with your personalized Culture Weekly

You are all set!

Your first Culture Weekly will arrive this week.

Home
Discover
Play
Nearby
Favorites