Buste van Psyche 1879

Auguste Danse created this drawing of a bust of Psyche. The image captures the prevalent Neoclassical artistic conventions which looked back to ancient Greek and Roman ideals of beauty and mythology, yet it also marks a moment in time when traditional representations of women were starting to be questioned. Psyche, as a figure of the soul, embodies themes of love and transformation through adversity. Danse renders her as a figure of delicate beauty, a symbol of feminine virtue that was highly valued in the 19th century. Yet, the drawing also hints at the changing roles of women in society, with the rise of feminist movements and discussions around female identity. Danse perhaps subtly acknowledges these shifts, portraying Psyche with a sense of introspection that invites viewers to consider the complexities and inner life of this mythical figure. This work captures the artistic practices of its time while resonating with broader societal questions about the construction of identity, emotion, and the enduring power of classical mythology.