I was testing the live view function with a Lensbaby 3G variable focus lens and looking for a subject.

I chose a cheapo alabaster cast about 35 cm high, bought from one of the tourist rip-off shops near where I live. We all have to make a living, I suppose.

I can't work out what made the sculptor give her such a modern body compared to the Botticelli original. Her derrière - were I inclined to shoot it - can only be described as 'pert', whereas I believe old Alessandro (a total foot fetishist, if ever there was one) would have given her a nice, semi-gothic and no doubt graceful rump. When I start contemplating might-have-been backsides in art history, I know it's time for me to go to bed.

Anyway, this is one of the few Lensbaby shots I am rather proud of. The image was post-processed to resemble Kodak 400 CN black and white film, which sounds like I know what that is. I liked the effect, that's all. Photoblog has lost some of the shadow tones unfortunately.

Criticism welcome.

Again, I find the unreal shift from sharp to fuzzy in the same plane irritating. I can imagine the effect being put to use to soften up surroundings or foreground or background but to have the subject itself phase out is disturbing. Having said that It might have been a pleasing effect if the whole of the figurine had a uniform fuzziness, the lighting was good. yellodog · 2009-03-05: 15:46

Glorious picture - such beauty Robertthebob · 2009-03-05: 18:08

Yes, I see what you mean here...great sculpture and good interpretation of it ????? · 2009-04-04: 17:13

Fabulous! anotheramanda · 2009-05-03: 23:01

Oh,I've just noticed this and love it..makes the cheapo cast look stunning..and it probably is anyway..big hips and round bits are just as nice in alabaster as small bits and pert behinds...There's a sculpture in Kelvingrove art gallery and museum,that I love..couldn't find a picture to add a link . elizzi · 2010-06-29: 19:25

Tagged: monochrome derrière posterior rump bottom lensbaby alabaster venus