Psyche by Pietro Tenerani

Psyche by Pietro Tenerani

C. 1863

Color Chromolithograph

The emotional vulnerability of classical mythology defines the dramatic subject of this original 1863 color chromolithograph. Titled "Psyche," the composition documents a famous marble masterwork by the Italian Neoclassical sculptor Pietro Tenerani. The print captures the despondent, winged adolescent girl seated in profile upon a rugged stone outcrop, her head downcast and delicate drapery cascading across her lap to convey her absolute grief. Produced by the prominent British printing firm Day and Son, who served as Lithographers to the Queen, this vibrant plate was published as part of the monumental three-volume compilation Masterpieces of Industrial Art and Sculpture at the International Exhibition, 1862.

This work was originally produced as a standalone plate for a comprehensive publication documenting the grandest achievements of the 1862 London International Exhibition. During the mid-nineteenth century, the booming global phenomenon of World's Fairs fueled an intense desire among European publishers to preserve and distribute rare cultural artifacts using newly advanced printing methods. Day and Son became highly celebrated for their exceptional ability to translate the complex textures of historic objects, three-dimensional marbles, and industrial designs into fine commercial print media. This print represents the golden age of British chromolithography, capturing Tenerani's celebrated Neoclassical sculpture with rich, oil-like ink layers that made premier international fine art accessible to Victorian collectors and institutions across the globe.

Dimensions: H 16 ½”x 11 ½”W

Condition: Has slight foxing