Shakespeare’s Sonnet no. 154 provides the inspiration for this scene, in which Cupid’s potent arrows are stolen by ‘tripping’ nymphs as he sleeps. This painting and its pendant (no. 56) effectively challenge the misconception that Queen Victoria and Prince Albert disapproved of nudity in art.

Commissioned by Queen Victoria and presented to Prince Albert on his birthday, 26 August 1849

No. 57