MASTER OF THE TAKING OF TARENTO – The triumph of Venus with Achilles, Tristan, Lancelot, Samson, Paris and Troilus worshiping her Louvre (Paris)

The composition presents a central female figure suspended within an oval halo, radiating light and commanding immediate attention. She is depicted in a classical pose, reminiscent of depictions of Venus or other goddesses of love and beauty. Two winged figures flank her on either side, positioned above the scene below; they appear to be cherubic representations, holding what seem to be arrows, suggesting their role as agents of affection and desire.
Below this luminous apex, a group of male figures are arranged in an act of veneration. Each man is distinct in his attire and posture, indicating individual identities within a larger narrative context. They kneel or bow before the central figure, their gestures conveying reverence and submission. The presence of armor suggests some are warriors or knights, while others appear to be dressed in more civilian garb. A small animal – possibly a hare – is situated near the kneeling figures, adding an element of unexpected naturalism to the otherwise idealized scene.
The setting is a dense, stylized woodland, rendered with meticulous detail. Foliage and vegetation obscure portions of the ground, creating a sense of depth and enclosure. The darkness surrounding the central group emphasizes their isolation and highlights the radiant figure above.
Several subtexts emerge from this arrangement. The gathering of these men – each seemingly drawn from different narratives or historical periods – implies a universal theme: the power of love to transcend boundaries of time, status, and even morality. The inclusion of figures like Achilles, Tristan, Lancelot, Samson, Paris, and Troilus suggests that their legendary tales are all ultimately bound by the influence of this central female figure, representing an archetype of feminine allure and its impact on heroic actions.
The painting’s unusual octagonal format contributes to a sense of formality and ritualistic significance. The deliberate framing reinforces the notion of a sacred or ceremonial event, elevating the scene beyond a simple depiction of earthly love. It suggests that this is not merely about romantic affection but rather about something more profound – a worshipful acknowledgement of an idealised feminine power.