Artwork

Allegory of Love, Cupid and Psyche

Allegory of Love, Cupid and Psyche, by Francisco Goya, oil, 1800
Allegory of Love, Cupid and Psyche, by Francisco Goya, oil, 1800

Allegory of Love, Cupid and Psyche is an oil painting by Francisco Goya. It dates from 1800 and is held in the collection of the Museu Nacional d'Art de Catalunya.

About this work

Overview

Allegory of Love, Cupid and Psyche is a painting created by Francisco Goya in 1800 using oil paint. It is an allegorical work held in the Museu Nacional d'Art de Catalunya.

Subject & Meaning

The painting depicts the mythological figures Cupid and Psyche in an intimate scene. The male figure, Cupid, stands over Psyche, who reclines on a couch, creating a sensual atmosphere. The scene is set in a dimly lit room with classical decorations, including a column and a statue.

Technique & Style

Goya's use of chiaroscuro, a technique that exploits strong contrasts between light and dark, creates a sense of drama and tension in the painting. The artist's characteristic style is evident in the way the figures are framed within the dimly lit setting.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Francisco Goya

Artist

Francisco Goya

Francisco José de Goya y Lucientes (; Spanish: ; 30 March 1746 – 16 April 1828) was a Spanish romantic painter and printmaker.