On the other hand, before the passion for the dogaresse had possessed him, he had never loved.

Many painters are thus, satisfying with magnificent models an impetuosity of temperament which does not mount from the senses to the heart.

Accustomed to regard the human form from a certain point, they find in beauty, which would appear to us simply animal, principles of plastic emotion which at times suffice for their amorous requirements.

They are only more deeply touched by it, when to that rather coarse intoxication is joined, in the woman who inspires them, the refined graces of mind, the delicacy of elegance and the subtleties of sentiment.
Such was Madame Steno, who at once inspired the painter with a passion as complete as a first love.

It was really such.