Venus of Urbino Painting Value Guide

The Venus of Urbino is a seminal 1538 oil painting by Italian master Titian, commissioned by the Duke of Urbino, Guidobaldo II della Rovere. This iconic work from the Venetian school is highly collectible for its revolutionary portrayal of female sensuality and its lasting impact on Western art history.

What affects the value of Venus of Urbino Painting?

• The quality and age of the reproduction, as original Titian works are museum-held, affecting the $200-$400 range.
• The condition of the oil on canvas, including any cracking, fading, or restoration work.
• The intricacy of the frame and whether it matches the 16th-century Italian aesthetic.
• Provenance or documentation linking the piece to specific historical collections or high-quality print runs.

How to Identify Venus of Urbino Painting?

• Look for the specific composition of a nude woman reclining on a bed within a palatial Italian setting.
• Identify the characteristic Venetian school style, known for its rich use of color and light in oil on canvas.
• Check for the presence of a small dog at the foot of the bed and two servants in the background.
• Verify the 1538 era styling and the specific depiction of the goddess Venus as portrayed by Titian.

History of Venus of Urbino Painting

The Venus of Urbino is a 1538 oil painting by the Italian master Titian. It depicts a nude young woman, identified as the goddess Venus, reclining on a bed in a palatial setting. This iconic work is celebrated for its revolutionary depiction of female sensuality and its influence on later artists. Commissioned by Guidobaldo II della Rovere, Duke of Urbino, it is one of the most famous examples of the Venetian school of painting.