'Loves of the Gods': Mars and Venus
10 of 44 portraits by Titian
© National Portrait Gallery, London
'Loves of the Gods': Mars and Venus
by John Smith, after Titian
mezzotint, 1708
16 1/4 in. x 11 in. (413 mm x 280 mm) plate size; 20 1/8 in. x 13 3/8 in. (510 mm x 340 mm) paper size
Purchased, 1944
Reference Collection
NPG D11713
Artistsback to top
- John Smith (1652-1743), Engraver. Artist or producer associated with 1181 portraits, Sitter in 4 portraits.
- Titian (circa 1488-1576), Artist. Artist or producer associated with 44 portraits.
Subjects & Themesback to top
Events of 1708back to top
Current affairs
James II's son, James Stuart, mounts an unsuccessful invasion of Scotland with a French fleet, endeavouring to reclaim the throne.Robert Harley, Duke of Oxford, having intrigued against the Duke of Marlborough and Earl of Godolphin, is dismissed from Parliament by Queen Anne.
Queen's consort, Prince George of Denmark dies.
Art and science
The overall construction of St. Paul's Cathedral is completed. Sir Christopher Wren's son and the Master Mason lay the last stone on the lantern in a 'topping out' ceremony.International
The allies' decisive victory against the French at the Battle of Oudenarde is principally due to William Cadogan, Earl of Cadogan's skilful deployment of an advance guard at opening stages of battle.Minorca is captured from Spain by the Anglo-Dutch navy.
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