Skip to main content

Botticelli’s 'Venus and Mars': A depiction of Renaissance love

Experience the collection like never before with our new exclusive National Treasures film series. In this episode, we delve into the art and mythology of Renaissance Florence with a focus on Botticelli's iconic 'Venus and Mars.'

  • 10-minute film
  • Watch on demand, for free
  • Available only to Members

Join curator Laura Llewellyn as she offers unique insights into the painting's composition, symbolism, and the historical context surrounding its creation.

In this film, we discover the secrets behind Botticelli's iconic painting, 'Venus and Mars'. The painting, likely commissioned to celebrate a marriage, shows Venus, goddess of love, and Mars, god of war, in a playful and humorous manner.

The painting is to be loaned to the Fitzwilliam Museum, Cambridge, as part of the National Gallery's Bicentenary celebrations. This 10-minute film is exclusively available on-demand for free to Members and offers a unique opportunity to explore one of the National Gallery's most treasured masterpieces.

Not a Member?

Online or in the Gallery - Members enjoy more. 

Become a Member to watch this film.

Laura Llewellyn

Laura Llewellyn is Curator of Italian Paintings before 1500 at The National Gallery, London, where she was previously Associate Curator of Renaissance Paintings (2020-2023). 

How to watch the film

1. Select 'Watch now'

You need to book a free ticket to watch these films.

2. Log in to your account

As a Member you have exclusive access.

3. Watch now

The film will be available to watch, in your account. 

On-demand films for Members
Exclusive films for Members to watch on-demand
Find out more
Gift Membership
Gift great art and support your National Gallery
Gift Membership