A large antique engraving with etching on paper by French printmaker Étienne Baudet after Francesco Albani, titled Loves Make Weapons Under the Guidance of Venus. The composition is identified as Plate 2 of 4 and belongs to Albani’s Venus cycle. The original painted cycle was commissioned by the Duke of Mantua in 1621, and the original paintings are now in the Louvre.

The plate bears a date of 1672 and includes visible inscriptions identifying Francesco Albani as inventor/painter and Étienne Baudet as engraver. The lower right also bears an embossed stamp indicating a later impression printed by the Regia Calcografia, Rome’s historic state print publisher, active under that name from 1870 to 1945. Because of this later institutional stamp, the work is described conservatively as a later impression from the 1672 plate, rather than as a 17th-century impression.

The scene depicts a classical mythological subject with Diana’s nymphs disarming their lovers within a wooded landscape. With its large scale, Old Master composition, and architectural framing presence, the work has strong decorative impact and would suit a library, dining room, study, stair hall, or formal interior where a serious antique print can do what serious antique prints do best.

Object Details
After Francesco Albani, Italian, 1578–1660
Printmaker: Étienne Baudet, French
Loves Make Weapons Under the Guidance of Venus
Plate 2 of 4
Engraving / etching on paper
Date in plate: 1672
Later impression with Regia Calcografia embossed stamp
Approximate image/sight size: 23" H × 26" W
Approximate framed size: 27.5" H × 30.5" W
Framed under glass
Black mat, visibly faded
Watermark described as horseman/centaur with flag within a double-bordered circle

Condition Description
Antique work on paper with visible age and condition issues. The sheet shows heavy toning, some waviness or undulation, and minor spotting/marks in the margins. The black mat is faded, and the frame shows age-related wear. The work is framed under glass.

Please review all photographs carefully, as they form part of the condition description. Sold as found and as shown.

Purchase Details
Price: $200
Shipping quoted separately. This is a large framed antique work on paper and may incur Oversize Shipping Fee depending on the carrier. Combined shipping available. Please inquire for additional photographs, condition details, or a shipping estimate. Glass may be removed for shipping upon request, which may reduce shipping cost and transit risk.