Ep. 65 - Sandro Botticelli's "The Birth of Venus" (1485-86)

I can't help the way I'm feeling/Goddess of love, please take me to your leader/I can't help, I keep on dancing. - Lady GagaThe neoplatonic ideal of beauty, the girl on the half-shell, the naked chick riding a clam. Her tilted head and fluttery hair are recognized by everyone and their grandma, but no one - experts included - can explain just why in the heck this painting is so iconic. Shell we take on the challenge?See the images.Music used:Django Reinhardt, “Django’s Tiger”Joan Baez, “Diamonds and Rust”The Blue Dot Sessions, “TwoPound,” “Coulis Coulis,” “Delmendra,” “No Smoking,” “Belle Anette,” “Rue Severine,” “Ranch Hand,” “Pastel de Nata,” “Khfett”Lady Gaga, “Venus”Episode sponsor:The Art of Crime PodcastSupport the show by becoming a patron or by just sending us a tip.