Parino Mercato Antiquario

Description

Spectacular Italian painting from the second half of the 17th century. Oil on canvas artwork of considerable size depicting a mythological subject of great charm, Psyche descends into the underworld. Legend has it that Princess Psyche was so beautiful that she attracted the wrath of Venus. The Goddess then sends her son Cupid to punish her, but instead of making her fall in love with her monster, her arrow falls on her foot, making him fall madly in love with the girl. The God takes her to her castle but she never reveals herself because she only reveals herself in the darkness of the night. Having discovered the identity of her husband, the young girl will have to face countless trials and the last, the most difficult, will be the descent into hell to ask the Goddess Persephone for some of her beauty. Having fed Cerberus, who we find depicted below, the princess appears before Hades and his wife who grants her a casket or ampoule with the specific order not to open it. But she knows her curiosity, she is a woman and during the return she opens the ampoule which actually contains a deep sleep that puts the beautiful Psyche to sleep. At this point Eros finally intervenes, awakens the girl and asks Jupiter to unite them forever, making her a full-fledged Goddess. A painting of notable pictorial quality, with the great dynamism typical of the mature Baroque. The God of the underworld and his wife occupy the center of the composition while we find Psyche at the foot of the steps leading to the throne. You should note at the top left two rare little angels with masterfully painted bat wings. The whole scene is developed within a splendid architecture that gives depth to the composition, while in the distance we see the damned suffering the pain of hell. Monumental artwork, suitable for a large reception hall. It features a small wooden wand from the 20th century, with some signs of aging. Painting that has undergone restoration with relining, replacement of the frame and restoration of color in some places (see photo). Overall in good state of conservation.
As each of our products will be accompanied by a certificate of authenticity and warranty and photographic documentation. Every item will be packed in a custom-made wooden box. Free shipping in Europe and UK (import and custom duties NOT included), 1500€ shipping cost to USA. Worldwide shipping at affordable prices.