Lot Essay
Royer studied under Bouguereau and Cabanel at the height of their studios. The high finish, exactitude in draftsmanship, and rich coloration of their work is also evident in Royer's compositions. In 1874 he submitted his first picture to the Salon, and his 1896 entry earned him a second class medal. A proponent of the Academic traditions of his teachers, Royer's paintings often depicted mythological subjects. The 1893 Chicago World's Columbian Exposition was the largest exhibition of its type in America and the French painting section was second only in number of entries to that of the United States. In 1902 he participated along with Adrien Moreau, Adrien Tanoux, Bonis and Louis Beroud (see lot 59) in the decoration of the town hall in the Tenth arrondissement.
The story of Cupid and Psyche was a popular subject for pompier artists. Under the guize of painting a mythological subject deriving from a literary text, the artist could also showcase his talents for painting the nude in a sensual fashion. In this composition, Royer chooses the moment when Cupid awakens Psyche from the deep sleep that Venus has cast upon her and the lovers are reunited.
The story of Cupid and Psyche was a popular subject for pompier artists. Under the guize of painting a mythological subject deriving from a literary text, the artist could also showcase his talents for painting the nude in a sensual fashion. In this composition, Royer chooses the moment when Cupid awakens Psyche from the deep sleep that Venus has cast upon her and the lovers are reunited.