Psyche - The Bride of Eros (Cupid)

This is a gorgeous, large sized shell cameo. The piece is oval and measures 1 and 7/8 (45mm) by 2 inches (48 mm). The cameo depicts Psyche, identified by the butterfly comb in her hair. The horns below likely signify the announcement and final celebration of her marriage to Eros. The marriage of Psyche (the soul) and Eros (Cupid or Love) was difficult in coming, but won out in the end. This story holds great significance for the intensity of love and the granduer of "love awakening the soul" (One of the myths is that Psyche was placed into eternal sleep and Eros awakened her with the pick of an arrow). Because of this underlying meaning, in years past, cameos of Psyche were often a treasured gift of affection from a man to the woman he loved. The cameo is mounted in a yellow gold frame brooch with an elaborate leaf design on the sides and at the top and bottom. This piece is currently not priced for sale; however, offers are always welcomed.