Large Antique-style Vases With A Patinated Metal Finish: “the Metamorphoses Of Apuleius”

A pair of patinated metal vases in the neoclassical style, featuring a beautiful, nuanced brown patina. These amphora-shaped vases rest on a circular pedestal.

Each vase is richly decorated with a high relief that runs all the way around the body, illustrating scenes from *The Metamorphoses*, also known as *The Golden Ass*, a novel written by Apuleius in the 2nd century.

These vases illustrate the story of Eros (Cupid) and Psyche, as told in Apuleius’ *The Golden Ass*. The four reliefs unfold the metaphor of the Soul (Psyche) undergoing trials to attain divine love and immortality.

First scene: The Offering / The Altar: Eros (recognizable by his wings) and Psyche stand on either side of an altar. He places a wreath on her head as they perform a sacred ritual, symbolizing their union or an oath.

Second scene: The Separation or the Quest: Psyche (wearing a flowing veil) appears to be guided or held back by a child/Cupid, representing the desire that drives her to seek her lost love after breaking the taboo of looking upon Eros’s face.

Third scene: The reunion and the family: A warrior or hero (Eros in his more adult/triumphant form, or the allegory of the hearth) is reunited with his companion, who presents him with their child, Hedone (Voluptue / Pleasure), born of their union.

Fourth scene: The Apotheosis: Eros embraces Psyche, who holds aloft a wreath of flowers or myrtle. This is the triumph of their love: Psyche is made immortal by Zeus to live eternally alongside Eros on Mount Olympus.