Psyche revived by cupid's kiss

Definition

The term 'psyche revived by cupid's kiss' refers to a popular theme in Neoclassical art, symbolizing the awakening of the soul or spirit through love and beauty, often represented by the figures of Psyche and Cupid. This theme reflects the era's fascination with classical mythology, human emotion, and idealized forms, showcasing the revival of interest in antiquity during the Neoclassical period.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The theme of 'psyche revived by cupid's kiss' is prominently illustrated in Jean-Baptiste Carpeaux's sculpture, which captures the moment of Psyche's awakening through Cupid's kiss.
2. This theme embodies the Neoclassical values of harmony and ideal beauty, drawing on classical myths to express complex human emotions.
3. Psyche's story is often interpreted as a metaphor for the journey of the soul towards self-discovery and fulfillment through love.
4. The depiction of Psyche and Cupid often features elegant lines and serene expressions, characteristic of Neoclassical aesthetics.
5. The revival of interest in Greek and Roman myths during the Neoclassical period led to a resurgence of themes like love and beauty in art, influencing many artists' works.

Review Questions

• How does the theme of 'psyche revived by cupid's kiss' reflect the values of Neoclassicism?
  • 'Psyche revived by cupid's kiss' exemplifies Neoclassical values by highlighting themes of ideal beauty, love, and emotional depth through classical mythology. The depiction emphasizes harmony and proportion typical of Neoclassical art while showcasing the narrative of Psyche’s awakening as a symbol of enlightenment through love. This connection to antiquity illustrates how artists sought to combine emotional expression with classical ideals.
• Discuss the significance of Psyche's story in relation to Neoclassical art and its cultural context.
  • 'Psyche's story holds significant relevance in Neoclassical art as it encapsulates themes of love, beauty, and personal transformation that resonated with the ideals of the time. The narrative serves as a metaphor for the soul's quest for knowledge and understanding through emotional experiences. In a cultural context marked by Enlightenment thinking, Psyche's trials reflect the balance between rational thought and emotional depth celebrated during this artistic movement.
• Evaluate how 'psyche revived by cupid's kiss' serves as a bridge between Neoclassicism and Romanticism in art history.
  • 'Psyche revived by cupid's kiss' represents a transitional theme that bridges Neoclassicism and Romanticism by illustrating the shift from classical ideals to more emotional expressions. While Neoclassicism emphasizes reason and order through mythological narratives, Romanticism begins to focus on individual feelings and nature. This artwork highlights emotional connections through myth while paving the way for Romantic artists to explore deeper personal sentiments, ultimately leading to a broader exploration of human experience in art.

Related terms

Neoclassicism: An artistic movement that emerged in the late 18th century, inspired by the art and culture of ancient Greece and Rome, emphasizing harmony, simplicity, and proportion.

Psyche: In Greek mythology, Psyche is a mortal woman whose beauty provoked the jealousy of Venus, ultimately leading to her trials and her union with Cupid, representing the soul's journey towards love and enlightenment.

Romanticism: An artistic and literary movement that followed Neoclassicism in the late 18th to mid-19th centuries, emphasizing emotion, nature, and individualism over classical ideals.