The work from Vik Muniz's Pictures of Garbage series is an appropriation of Venus with Mercury and Cupid (c. 1525), a painting by the Italian High Renaissance artist Antonio da Correggio.

In this composition, Venus, the goddess of love, holds her son Cupid's bow as Mercury, the god of communication and wit, teaches him to read. Mercury gazes down fondly at Cupid, while Venus looks dreamily toward the viewer, smiling. This intimate scene is set against a dark, understated background that directs attention to the figures.

The figures are depicted nude, yet Correggio avoids overtly erotic gestures or expressions. Instead, the characters appear indifferent to their own beauty, inviting viewers to reflect on the moral complexities of the scene. This nuanced portrayal adds depth to the work, encouraging contemplation of themes such as innocence, education, and the nature of love.

Venus with Mercury and Cupid is housed in the National Gallery in London.