Neptune, Amphitrite and Cupid

Valerio Belli

National Gallery of Art

This is a photograph of an ancient carved relief. The relief depicts three nude human figures intricately carved in a circular format. The carving is made of a bronze or bronze-like material and displays two adult figures, one male and the other female, alongside a smaller, child-like figure. The figures are depicted with a sense of movement and interaction; the male figure holds a staff or scepter. The craftsmanship highlights the musculature and form of the figures, achieving a realistic representation despite the limitations imposed by the size of the medallion. The background is flat, directing focus to the figures.