Amore e Psiche. Papier machè modellato e dipinto.... Lot n° 87

The two refined sculptures, a rare example of high quality workmanship in the ancient technique of modelling papier-mâché, depict the mythological theme dear to neoclassical art, of Cupid and Psyche, where the girl symbolically places her soul, in the guise of a butterfly, in the hands of Cupid who appears intent on hiding the bow that with its darts is the cause of the troubled love affair. The use of a light and "ephemeral" material such as papier-mâché is linked to the function of the works used since antiquity in rich and elaborate sacred scenic apparatus or in festive profane choreographies in festivals or processions, in the case of ours, probably created for a wedding feast., H. 86.5 cm, Ciro Leone, Naples