Cupid and Psyche

This sculpture developed from one of the groups in The Gates of Hell (the bronze portal and doors for the new Museum of Decorative Arts, Paris, which Rodin was asked to design in 1880). Rodin explored the subject over a number of years, the earliest dating from before 1886, and produced it in several other versions, as well as drawing it repeatedly.

This marble version was carved by one of his trusted assistants, under his supervision. This was normal workshop practice at the time and it is known that Rodin himself did not carve marble sculptures. The contrast of the rough-hewn rock with the smooth surface of the figures indicates Rodin's admiration for the work of Michelangelo.