But the
painting also sums up the Neo-Platonists’ view that earthly love is compatible with Christian theology. In
their reinterpretation of classical mythology, Venus as the source of love provokes desire through Cupid.
Desire can lead either to lust and violence (Zephyr) or, through reason and faith (Mercury), to the love of
God. Primavera, read from right to left, served to urge the newlyweds to seek God through love.
