Bouguereau L'Amour et Psyché Enfants Ceramic Vase 7.75H New Attic

Bouguereau | Mythology is His Theme

Soft clouds, rosy cheeks, and myth wrapped gently around a cylindrical form. This Bouguereau L'Amour et Psyché vase features the tender 1890 painting L'Amour et Psyché, enfants by William Adolphe Bouguereau. Cupid and Psyche appear here as children, suspended in a moment of innocent affection.

On the front of the ceramic vase, Cupid leans in to kiss Psyche’s cheek. She lowers her gaze, modest and serene. Their small wings and luminous skin emerge from soft clouds, a hallmark of Bouguereau’s academic realism. The reverse side is finished in a complementary pale blue tone that echoes the sky, balancing the Bouguereau Cupid and Psyche vase from every angle.

The Story Behind L'Amour et Psyché

In Greek mythology, Psyche was a mortal whose beauty rivaled Venus herself. Cupid, sent to punish her, fell in love instead. Bouguereau’s 1890 interpretation strips away drama and presents love at its most innocent. Rather than tension or tragedy, he shows intimacy and softness. The children’s embrace reflects devotion without spectacle.

William Bouguereau was a master of the academic tradition. His paintings are known for luminous flesh tones, flawless modeling, and emotional clarity. During his lifetime, he was celebrated as one of the greatest artists in France. Though later overshadowed by modern movements, collectors today continue to admire his technical brilliance.

Design & Craftsmanship of the Bouguereau Cupid and Psyche vase

This Bouguereau L'Amour et Psyché ceramic vase is part of the Parastone Museum Gift Collection. The artwork is reproduced in four-color printing and applied to fine kiln-fired ceramic with a smooth gloss finish. Its slender cylindrical shape makes it ideal for a few stems, small buds, or a compact arrangement.

• Measures: 7 3/4 in H x 2 3/4 in W x 2 3/4 in D
• Weight: 15 oz
• Material: Kiln-fired ceramic with gloss finish
• Collection: Parastone Museum Gift Collection
• Product Number: VAM09BO
• Includes color description card

About William Adolphe Bouguereau (1825–1905)

Born in La Rochelle, France, William Bouguereau studied at the École des Beaux-Arts and later at the Académie Julian in Paris. He worked within the academic tradition, focusing on naturalism, mythological subjects, and idealized human form. His paintings of classical themes were highly sought after in his lifetime.

This Bouguereau Cupid and Psyche vase brings that classical refinement into daily life. Sweet, sentimental, impeccably painted, and just dramatic enough to make your roses feel important.

Pairing Ideas for Romantic Displays

This vase works well in a romantic gift grouping. You can explore more love-themed pieces in our Romance, Love, and Wedding collection.

For a classic romantic sculpture pairing, see our Rodin collection, which includes The Kiss and related works: Rodin museum gifts collection.

Styling and Display of Bouguereau Cupid and Psyche vase

This vase is best with a compact arrangement. A few buds, short stems, or a small cluster of flowers will echo the scale of the artwork. Because the image is concentrated on the front, it also works well on a shelf where the scene can face outward.

Care Notes

Place on a stable surface. Lift from the base when moving. Clean with a soft, dry cloth. Avoid abrasive cleaners.

For More Reading from the Web

• Art Renewal Center – William Bouguereau and the Real 19th Century
• The New Yorker – Bouguereau (1974)
• Art Renewal Center – Cupid and Psyche
• Wikipedia – William-Adolphe Bouguereau