Eros

Psyche et l'amour, 1817 by Baron Francois Gerard, Louvre, Paris.

A popular subject throughout the 19th century, Gerard version of the story of Cupid and Psyche almost portrays the figures as secondary to the outdoor temple and landscape setting. The vibrancy of the bright colors also serve to draw our attention from the couple.

Beautiful Perfection

Cupid and Psyche as Children by William-Adolphe Bouguereau, 1889, Private Collection.

Among the most popular and prolific artists of the 19th century, Bouguereau was a traditional academic-style painter as many other artists were shunning (or being shunned by) the French Art Academy and heading in different directions. He preferred classical subjects, such as Greek Mythology, and a very straight-forward, realistic, presentation. His work remains quite popular for it's beauty, and the obvious skill of the artist.