Artwork

Psyche Giving Gifts to Her Sisters

Psyche Giving Gifts to Her Sisters, by Louis Laguerre, unspecified, 1710
Psyche Giving Gifts to Her Sisters, by Louis Laguerre, unspecified, 1710

Psyche Giving Gifts to Her Sisters is an unspecified painting by the French Classical Baroque artist Louis Laguerre. It dates from 1710 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum.

About this work

Overview

Psyche Giving Gifts to Her Sisters, a 1710 painting by Louis Laguerre, is part of the Victoria and Albert Museum's collection. The work depicts a serene scene involving Psyche and her sisters, accompanied by a cherub, set against a backdrop of classical architecture.

Subject & Meaning

The painting illustrates a moment from the myth of Psyche, where she distributes gifts to her sisters. The composition conveys a sense of elegance and refinement, reflecting the narrative's emphasis on Psyche's kindness and the sisters' interaction.

Technique & Style

Laguerre employed chiaroscuro to create depth and contrast, evident in the interplay of light and shadow across the figures and architectural elements. The classical architectural backdrop and golden statue in the scene further underscore the work's adherence to contemporary Baroque stylistic influences.

History & Provenance

Created in 1710, the painting is now housed at the Victoria and Albert Museum, though specific details of its acquisition history are not provided here.

Context

The work reflects early 18th-century artistic tastes, blending mythological subject matter with Baroque techniques and classical motifs, appealing to the period's aristocratic patrons who valued mythological and allegorical themes.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Louis Laguerre

Artist

Louis Laguerre

Louis Laguerre (1663–1721) was a London artist, born in Versailles.