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William Theed (1804-91)

Psyche lamenting the loss of Cupid 1847

RCIN 2044

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Theed illustrates the moment after Psyche has spied on Cupid by lamplight, causing him to take flight and leaving her to mourn. In the nineteenth century these two lovers came to represent two opposite types of love: Cupid was profane or erotic love, while Psyche, often depicted as a half-draped figure, symbolised sacred or spiritual love.

Purchased by Queen Victoria