Cupid and Psyche
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.
Credit: Norman O. Stone and Ella A. Stone Memorial Fund
1574
Engraving
36.0 x 23.4 cm
1980.94
Image and text: The Cleveland Museum of Art, 2023
Where you'll find this
The Cleveland Museum of Art
Permanent collection
