Amor vlucht voor Psyche c. 1530 - 1560

This engraving, titled "Amor vlucht voor Psyche," or "Cupid Flees from Psyche," was made by the Master of the Dice, though the exact date remains unknown. The print depicts a moment of crisis taken from Apuleius's narrative where Psyche betrays Amor's trust, leading to his departure. During the Renaissance, such allegories were often used to explore the relationship between reason and emotion. Consider how the image, with its focus on emotional turmoil, reflects societal expectations around love, trust, and gender roles. Psyche is presented as a figure of remorse, while Cupid literally flees the scene, bow in hand. The poem beneath the image speaks of despair and a longing for hope, emotions perhaps mirroring the personal experiences of individuals navigating the complex societal mores of the time. The landscape is not merely a backdrop but a reflection of inner turmoil. This piece offers a glimpse into the complex interplay between classical mythology, Renaissance ideals, and personal struggles with love and trust, mirroring questions that still echo today.