From the Legend of Cupid and Psyche

This painting from the Legend of Cupid and Psyche from around 1790 by Angelica Kauffmann depicts a scene from the mythological tale popularized by Apuleius. Kauffmann, born in Switzerland in 1741, was one of only two female founding members of the Royal Academy in London and among the leading Neoclassical painters of her generation. Characteristic of the artist's mature approach, the work displays graceful, decorative Neoclassicism combining classical subject matter with a lyrical sweetness, soft color, elegant figure types, pendant portraits and mythological scenes.

The mythological scene demonstrates Kauffmann's refined Neoclassical style, with elegant figure composition, soft color harmonies, and the graceful idealization that characterized her treatment of classical subjects.