Cupid and Psyche

Copied George Aarons, Cupid and Psyche, 1927, bronze, 10 3⁄4 x 15 x 7 1⁄8 in. (27.2 x 38.0 x 18.1 cm.), Smithsonian American Art Museum, Gift of Mrs. Gertrude Aarons, 1983.99

Artwork Details

Title
Cupid and Psyche
Artist
Date
1927
Location
Dimensions
10 3⁄4 x 15 x 7 1⁄8 in. (27.2 x 38.0 x 18.1 cm.)
Credit Line
Gift of Mrs. Gertrude Aarons
Mediums
Mediums Description
bronze
Classifications
Subjects
  • Mythology — classical — Psyche
  • Figure group
  • State of being — emotion — love
  • Mythology — classical — Cupid
Object Number
1983.99
Linked Open Data
https://edan.si.edu/saam/id/object/1983.99

Artwork Description

This idealized sculpture is an example of George Aarons' earlier work, and shows the mythological characters Cupid and Psyche in a passionate embrace. The goddess Venus was jealous of the mortal Psyche's beauty, and sent her son, Cupid, to punish the girl. Cupid fell in love with Psyche, however, and stole her away to live in the mountains. Psyche eventually won the favor of Venus and was granted immortality by the gods. In this piece, Aarons combined the two figures to create a single, unified form. Psyche leans back in a graceful arch while Cupid supports her with his wings.