A neoclassical agate intaglio. Eros and Psyche.

19th century

20 x 24 x 3 mm

The young girl is seated on the ground, looking slightly downwards in contemplation, and in the act of holding a jug. Her delicate body is characterized by butterfly wings on the bare back, while the legs are draped. Eros advances in front of her playing the double flute. The scene was engraved with similar compositional and stylistic characteristics by Pichler (signed carnelian intaglio, Vienna Kunsthistorisches Museum, Legate Timoni n.171; sardonic intaglio, by Giovanni Pichler, Vienna, Kunst, inv. XII. 424). This composition typically reflects the neoclassical taste and it is inspired by a drawing by Angelica Kaufman after a copy from the ancient (fresco). The work is characterized by great executive finesse. Attractive honey shade of stone.

Parallel: L.P. P. Stefanelli, La collezione Paoletti, vol. 2, p. 54 n. 331; p. 72 n. 536.

U.K. private collection, London.

Estimate: GBP 500 - 1000