Is Venus and Adonis under copyright?

No, this artwork is in the public domain.

Venus and AdonisJohn Cheere (1709-1787)None

160.0 x 187.0 cm
National Palace of Queluz

John Cheere (1709-1787) (1709 – 1787)

John Cheere (1709-1787) was a leading English sculptor known for charming lead statues adorning stately homes. Specializing in classical & pastoral themes, his work reflects 18th-century aristocracy's taste. Explore his legacy at Mus3ums!

National Palace of Queluz (Кέλυξ, Португалия)

Discover Queluz National Palace, a stunning Rococo masterpiece reflecting Portuguese history & royal life. Explore opulent interiors, lush gardens, and an impressive art collection showcasing European influences. A journey through grandeur, intrigue, and restoration!

A lead sculpture, representing Venus and Adonis, flanked by a dog and a cupid with a dove. The myth of Adonis is linked to the goddesses Aphrodite (Venus) and Persephone (Proserpina), who were rivals for the love and attention of the young man. Born from the incestuous relationship between Cinyras, the king of Cyprus, and his daughter Myrrha, he became famous for being a young man of exceptional beauty and a highly skilled hunter. The dispute between the two goddesses only ended with the intervention of Zeus (Jupiter), who decided that the young man would spend a third of the year with Aphrodite, a third of the year with Persephone and the other third with whomever he wanted. Adonis chose to spend two thirds of the year with Aphrodite. This myth gave birth to the idea of the cycle of the seed, which dies and is resuscitated each year. The presence in this sculptural group of a cupid and a dove, traditionally associated with Aphrodite, evokes the love affair between the two characters.

About this artwork

Title: Venus and Adonis
Artist: John Cheere (1709-1787)
Original dimensions: 160.0 x 187.0 cm
Format: Portrait
Copyright status: Public domain
Where to see it: National Palace of Queluz
Color hue: Green to Violet Spectrum
Perceived brightness: bright

Questions & Answers

Is "Venus and Adonis" held in the country of its creator?

No - the artwork is kept abroad. The creator was born in United Kingdom; the original work is in Португалия.

Are the colors of "Venus and Adonis" by John Cheere (1709-1787) saturated or muted?

"Venus and Adonis" by John Cheere (1709-1787) is recorded with a balanced soft saturation.

Which artist is "Venus and Adonis" attributed to?

"Venus and Adonis" was created by John Cheere (1709-1787). The information on this page describes John Cheere (1709-1787)'s original work.

What explains the copyright situation of "Venus and Adonis" by John Cheere (1709-1787)?

"Venus and Adonis" by John Cheere (1709-1787) is in the public domain - its copyright has expired. Copyright duration runs from the artist's death, which occurred in 1787.

How strong is the contrast in "Venus and Adonis" by John Cheere (1709-1787)?

"Venus and Adonis" by John Cheere (1709-1787) shows a bold contrast between its light and dark areas.

What are the dimensions of the original "Venus and Adonis" by John Cheere (1709-1787)?

The recorded dimensions of "Venus and Adonis" by John Cheere (1709-1787) are 160 x 187 cm. Reproductions can be ordered in other sizes while keeping the same proportions.

Where is "Venus and Adonis" by John Cheere (1709-1787) on display today?

"Venus and Adonis" by John Cheere (1709-1787) is on display at the National Palace of Queluz, Кέλυξ, Португалия. The museum listing refers to the original work, not to reproductions.