The story of Cupid and Psyche's forbidden love, always a crowd pleaser, was a popular theme for jewelers. Cupid falls in love with the beautiful mortal princess, Psyche. After many trials (including being turned into a butterfly), Psyche earns the right to become a goddess and live with her beloved. The ancient novel Metamorphoses, written in the 2nd century CE by Roman author Apuleius devotes four of its 11 books to the story of Cupid and Psyche. Mentioned therein is an account of the god falling passionately in love with the princess upon sight. Many renditions of the story have been published, and the imagery usually depicts Psyche with butterfly wings.
Set in gold fill, this large shell cameo brooch has a magnificent carving of the beautiful be-winged goddess. She leans on a draped plinth, her face in hand and her legs in a relaxed position. Perhaps she is contemplating all the trials and tests she must go through to be united with her beloved! Voluptuous, wistful and oh-so-young! A rare piece of art to delight all the cameo collectors out there!
19th century
Details (approximate)
Weight: 16.5 grams
Materials: Shell cameo in gold fill
Marks: None
Condition: Excellent Antique condition commensurate with age and wear