Belgium, 17th century / 1679
Cupid disguised as Aeneas's son, presents gifts to Dido
The Cleveland Museum of Art catalogs Cupid disguised as Aeneas's son, presents gifts to Dido as tapestry (Belgium, 17th century · 1679).
This tapestry is one from a series of eight that depicts the tragic love story of Dido and Aeneas. They were gifted to the museum for display in the armor court.
A CLOSER LOOK
The museum identifies this tapestry as tapestry weave: silk and wool and credits Giovanni Francesco Romanelli (Italian, 1610–1662).
The museum's collection notes: Achates, with spear in hand, presents Cupid, who is disguised as Aeneas's son, to Queen Dido. He offers her gifts to encourage her to love Aeneas who is seated at her side. Attendants are preparing a banquet that Dido is giving in honor of Aeneas and his companions.
FOLLOW THE EVIDENCE
The Cleveland Museum of ArtCupid disguised as Aeneas's son, presents gifts to DidoOriginal explanation based on the sources above. Images carry their own reuse terms.