Artwork Page for Cupid and Psyche

Details / Information for Cupid and Psyche

Cupid and Psyche

1574

Giorgio Ghisi

(Italian, 1520–1582)

after Giulio Romano

(Italian, 1492/99–1546)
Culture
Italy, 16th century
Medium
engraving
Support
Cream(3) laid paper
Measurements
Sheet: 36 x 23.4 cm (14 3/16 x 9 3/16 in.)
Credit Line
Norman O. Stone and Ella A. Stone Memorial Fund 1980.94
Catalogue raisonné
Lewis&Boorsch 50
State
i/iv
Public Domain
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Location
Not on view
Print

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.
A vertically oriented print in fine black lines depicts a winged man and nude woman reclining on a bed with animal legs. Above them, a winged child holds wreaths over their heads. To our right, a woman pours liquid into a dish held by another figure. A large tree frames the left side, while in the distance satyrs gather near an altar and a statue within a hilly landscape.

Cupid and Psyche

1574

Giorgio Ghisi, Giulio Romano

(Italian, 1520–1582), (Italian, 1492/99–1546)
Italy, 16th century

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