Wisdom and Strength (after Veronese)

after Paolo Veronese (Verona 1528 -Venice 1588). Oil painting on canvas, Wisdom and Strength, after Paolo Veronese (Verona 1528 -Venice 1588), 17th century. A copy after the original painting, circa 1580, once owned by Emperor Rudolph II and now in the Frick collection, New York. The monumental female figure, standing in the centre and gazing heavenwards represents divine Wisdom whilst the physical man behind to her, wrapped in wolf-skin and looking downwards, on the right, represents worldly Strength. They are seen against a backdrop of two large classical pillars and a landscape beyond, on the left. A sumptuous canopy hangs above them. At their feet is a cupid, clasping a crown and lying on red velevet drapery. Under the female's right foot is an orb and more jewellery is strewn around on the floor. Stourhead, Wiltshire (Accredited Museum)