Aug 23, 2006

Cupid and Psyche

Cupid and Psyche

1574

Giorgio Ghisi

(Italian, 1520–1582)

after Giulio Romano

(Italian, 1492/99–1546)

Engraving

Support: Cream(3) laid paper

Sheet: 36 x 23.4 cm (14 3/16 x 9 3/16 in.)

Norman O. Stone and Ella A. Stone Memorial Fund 1980.94

Catalogue raisonné: Lewis&Boorsch 50

State: i/iv

Location

Description

Crowned with laurel wreaths, Cupid and Psyche recline on a couch with their daughter Voluptas between them. Ceres, goddess of fertility and abundance, pours water on Cupid’s hand. The scene is derived from a story by Apuleius (about AD 124–170) narrating Psyche’s adventures leading up to her marriage to Cupid. The rich contrasts of light and shadow that Ghisi achieved in this engraving make this print especially sensual and luxurious. It reflects his later style and the different textures he was able to achieve in human bodies, silky drapery, and lush foliage.

See also
Collection: 
PR - Engraving
Department: 
Prints
Type of artwork: 
Print
Medium: 
Engraving

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