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Cupid and Psyche, 1817 (oil on canvas)

Cupid and Psyche, 1817 (oil on canvas)


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Cupid and Psyche, 1817 (oil on canvas)

499559 Cupid and Psyche, 1817 (oil on canvas)
by David, Jacques Louis (1748-1825); 221x282 (framed) 184.2x241.6 (unframed) cm; Cleveland Museum of Art, OH, USA; (add.info.: David used the story of Cupid and Psyche to explore the conflict between idealized love and physical reality. Cupid, lover of the beautiful mortal Psyche, visited her nightly on the condition that she not know his identity. Cupid was usually depicted as an ideal adolescent, but here David presents him as an ungainly teenager smirking at his sexual conquest.David took inspiration from a number of ancient texts, including an obscure, recently published Greek poem by Moschus that describes Cupid as a mean-spirited brat with dark skin, flashing eyes, and curly hair.
); Leonard C. Hanna, Jr. Fund; French, out of copyright

Media ID 23802138

© Leonard C. Hanna, Jr. Fund / Bridgeman Images

Cupid Lover Psyche Reclining Winged Beds Lovers


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EDITORS COMMENTS
This print showcases the renowned painting "Cupid and Psyche" by Jacques Louis David. Painted in 1817, this oil on canvas masterpiece measures 221x282 cm when framed and is currently housed at the Cleveland Museum of Art in Ohio, USA. David skillfully utilized the ancient mythological tale of Cupid and Psyche to delve into the complex dichotomy between idealized love and physical reality. In this particular depiction, Cupid, traditionally portrayed as an ideal adolescent figure, takes on a different persona. Here, he appears as an awkward teenager with a mischievous smirk that hints at his conquests. Drawing inspiration from various ancient texts, including a lesser-known Greek poem by Moschus, David presents Cupid as a mean-spirited brat with dark skin, flashing eyes, and curly hair. This departure from conventional portrayals adds depth to the narrative. The image captures Psyche reclining on a bed while being visited by her lover. The winged god hovers above her with his wings spread wide open—a symbol of their divine connection. The composition beautifully portrays their youthful passion and vulnerability. With its intricate details and masterful execution, this painting continues to captivate art enthusiasts worldwide. Its exploration of love's complexities transcends time and reminds us that even mythical beings are not immune to human flaws.

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