catalog text
“PSYCHE OF CAPUA”
A Neopolitan Classical Sculpure after the Antique
Carrara marble | Circa mid 19th century
Item # 106DOU10Q
A very good chiseled marble sculpture of the goddess Psyche draped in a loose garb, it is a product of the Grand Tour and likely dates to the middle of the 19th century. The ancient sculpture that inspired this model was found in the amphitheater of Capua in Italy during the 18th century and is believed to be of Roman origin circa the 1st century B.C., though probably a copy of a Hellenistic original; it is on display at Naples National Museum. The figure is sculpted with her head lowered to the right while her head and arms are sheared. While it was originally believed to be a model of Psyche and is most widely recognized as “Psyche of Capua”, it is now believed to be a depiction of Aphrodite of Knidos.
Measurements: 19 1/8" H x 7 1/2" D [base] x 6 1/4" W [base]
Condition Report:
Stone discolored with surface pitting from age. Losses to garment and elsewhere on the stone appear to be intentional distressing. Minor chips, scuffs and blemishes.