The Wedding Feast of Cupid and Psyche 1565 - 1575

Curator: Before us is a painted enamel dish depicting "The Wedding Feast of Cupid and Psyche," crafted by Pierre Reymond between 1565 and 1575. It resides here at the Metropolitan Museum of Art. Editor: The first impression is quite striking – a limited palette, yet so much activity swirling within a circular frame. It feels theatrical, almost staged. Curator: Indeed. The monochrome effect achieved through enamel allows for subtle gradations of tone, enhancing the illusion of depth and the play of light and shadow. Observe the Mannerist style – the elongated figures, the swirling clouds... Editor: Right, the clouds give the impression of texture that draws attention to the craftsmanship of applying enamel to metal. What kind of labor was required for such details and fine lines, how did he source his material and build such an iconic form. Curator: Certainly, understanding the artist’s physical labor, particularly the mastery required to control enamel on metal at that period, informs the narrative conveyed here, the classic mythic allegory… notice the decorative elements surrounding the inner image. Editor: And beyond Reymond's dexterity, who supplied him with his resources? What are we to make of such aristocratic presentation on what's basically dishware? Was this display intended for aesthetic experience or just a highbrow tableware piece? Curator: Perhaps a convergence of both? The subject, of course, elevates it beyond mere functionality. The myth of Cupid and Psyche speaks of the soul's journey toward love and immortality, reflecting humanist ideals popular at the time. Editor: And this myth made physical, literally pressed onto a decorative plate for an aristocratic family's table... I see tension in these converging themes, both the artist and society's intention revealed here. Curator: Very insightful. We can discern within its forms not only technical expertise and symbolic resonance but echoes of larger cultural negotiations, as well as how objects mediate between the sacred and mundane, luxury and utility, love and labor. Editor: Thank you. It brings home a lot to appreciate what an artisan puts on the table and it enriches our awareness of their creative and manual labor to create something for consumption and enjoyment.