CARRACCI, Annibale
(b. 1560, Bologna, d. 1609, Roma)

Eros and Anteros

1597-1602
Fresco
Galleria Farnese, Palazzo Farnese, Rome

In the corners of the vault above the parapet four pairs of 'amoretti' can be seen wrestling with each other. The picture shows Eros and Anteros, love and reciprocal love fighting over which of the two is stronger and deserving of the victor's prize. They are found on either side of Polyphemus, whose love for Galatea was unrequited.