The real Cupid, as he is often depicted, appears as a winged infant or young boy carrying a bow and a quiver of arrows. These arrows, when they strike someone, inspire feelings of love and passion.
Detailed Depiction of Cupid
- Appearance: Typically shown as a chubby, winged child or young boy (cherub).
- Equipment: His signature attributes are a golden bow and a quiver full of arrows. These aren't ordinary arrows; they are tipped with the power to incite love.
- Armor (Sometimes): Occasionally, Cupid is depicted wearing armor similar to that of Mars, the god of war. This may symbolize the powerful, almost combative nature of love, or the idea that love is an invincible force.
Symbolic Meaning
Cupid's appearance and attributes are heavily symbolic:
- The Bow and Arrows: Represents the sudden, piercing nature of love.
- Wings: Symbolize the flightiness and unpredictable nature of love.
- Infant/Child: Represents the irrationality and impulsiveness often associated with love.
In summary
So, while the "real" Cupid is a mythological figure, his iconic image is that of a winged child armed with love-inducing arrows. This image has evolved throughout history but generally sticks to the core components outlined above.
