Cupid’s Kiss is one of my favorite photographs. It is an easy choice due to the powerful emotion this visual creates. My contribution was to communicate the breathtaking message that this masterpiece of Antonio Canova expresses and guide the eye of the viewer directly into the heart of the photograph.
This is Amore e Psiche (Psyche Revived by Cupid’s Kiss) a sculpture created by Italian master artist Antonio Canova, commissioned in 1787. It is regarded as a masterpiece of Neoclassical sculpture and illustrates the mythological lovers at a moment of great passion, characteristic of the emerging Romanticism movement.
It represents the god of love, Cupid, at the height of love and tenderness, immediately after awakening the lifeless Psyche with a kiss.
It was a bad day
The day I created this photograph was personally a bad one for several reasons. In that specific moment, serenity was lacking in my family life. Nothing special, simply it was not a good time. I was in Paris, mainly for work, expanding my photography portfolio. My goal was specifically looking for Italian art in the Louvre Museum. Honestly, my mood was not the best.
I remember looking at this statue for almost one full hour. The Louvre Museum in Paris is huge, it requires days to visit completely. This Masterpiece is located in one of the hundreds of amazing galleries.
When I found Psyche Revived by Cupid’s Kiss(I prefer Amore e Psiche, the Italian name, the one that the sculptor Antonio Canova used) it brought on a flood of emotion. I would say, it was exactly what I needed, at that exact moment in my life.
I was alone in the gallery, which is a small miracle due to the importance and popularity of this statue. So, I took my time to explore this Neoclassical masterpiece.
Behind the scenes of the photograph
As a photographer, I was captivated by the timeless love story this sculpture embodies, a tale of passion, sacrifice, and eternal love. This photograph is not just an image; it's a narration of a profound tale, a piece of art that resonates deeply with romantic souls and art connoisseurs alike.
Every detail of this photograph is meticulously captured, immersing the viewer in the grandeur and elegance of the art world. This powerful photograph was taken in the afternoon when the soft, natural light filtering through the museum's skylights bestowed an otherworldly glow to the sculpture, heightening its allure.
This photograph transcends the constraints of a mere print; it is a conversation starter, a testament to your refined taste, and a captivating centerpiece. It is tailored for individuals who appreciate the finer things in life, who understand the value of art and history, and who wish to bring a piece of that grandeur into their own space.
Imagine your guests admiring this classic beauty, mounted in your living room or office, instantly enhancing the sophistication of your home or workspace.
With this photograph, you align yourself with the patrons of fine art, setting yourself apart from the ordinary. Displaying this photograph in your space not only adds immediate beauty but also elevates your status as a connoisseur and lover of art. Neglecting to purchase this photograph, you miss out on the opportunity to enrich your life with this breathtaking vista of history and artistic brilliance.
Your guests will undoubtedly notice the difference in the ambiance and the elevated elegance of your home or office with this exquisite photograph. This photograph is more than a mere accessory to your décor; it's a symbol of your unique aesthetic preferences and your appreciation for the profound narratives of classical sculptures. Own this symbol of eternal love and let it fill your space with its captivating charm.
Cupid’s Kiss it’s a visualization of the word Love
Having been recently awakened, Psiche reaches up towards her lover, Amore (Cupid), as he gently holds her by supporting her head and breast. Antonio Canova’s fine marble carving technique contrasts the realistic smooth skin with the surrounding elements.
Loosely draped around Psyche’s lower body, a sheet further emphasizes the difference between the texture of skin and material of any kind. Rough texture provides the basis of the rock upon which the composition is placed, supplementing the distinction of elements. Fine curls and lines make up the hair and light feathery details create realistic wings upon the softly landing Cupid.
In conclusion, it’s simply miraculous. It’s a mystery to me how the sculptor was able to transform the cold marble into a soft, sensuous human body. It was easy for me to be silent and admire it from every angle.
If you’re looking for a visualization of the word Love, this is the perfect translation. The square format for Cupid’s Kiss it’s the best possible composition because it gives importance to the circular embrace of the couple.
The black & white adds minimalism to the message—it’s pure Love, with no other distracting factors.
The use of black and white plus the square format offers many options for locating this photograph. In my opinion, however, I suggest the bedroom or an elegant studio as the best placement to compliment the ambiance.
Several options in sizes and frames give you the freedom to choose the perfect placement for this impressive accent to any home.
Cupid's Kiss: a Museum Quality Piece of Fine Art Photography
As a result, I have won several awards, but that is not my main goal. What is important to me is that I help you transform your home into a place of elegance and character.
I live in a country surrounded by the most exquisite art and I share this experience through my photography. I’d like to share the beauty of Italian Art with you for your enjoyment and to enhance your home.
I’ve chosen to work in partnership with Fine Art America. It’s the largest custom framing company in the world, with over 40 years of experience producing museum-quality prints.
Fine Art America offers hundreds of different frames and mats in a variety of colors and materials. Certainly, you can choose the dimension of the photograph that best works for you and your décor.
We’ll deliver the photograph right to your doorstep. The expert framing staff will hand-craft your photograph and ship it directly to you with a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Paolo Modena
My name is Paolo. I am a photographer. I consider myself fortunate to have grown up in Italy, surrounded by the art that is the envy of the world. I enjoy photography because it has caused me to fall in love with light, shade, and color. I see the world around me with fresh eyes every single day. And sometimes, when the mood is right, I just sit back and enjoy the moment without taking a photo.