Tucherservice (6): Schale auf hohem Fuß mit der Bestrafung der Psyche, um 1562

Description

The four flat bowls ("tazze") in this magnificent Limoges service belonging to the Tucher patrician family from Nuremberg are decorated with scenes from the story of Cupid and Psyche in enamel painting. Copperplate engravings were used as models, the subject of which is the story of Cupid and Psyche according to "Metamorphoses" by the ancient writer Apuleius. This series from around 1532/33 is attributed to the so-called "Master with the Cube". Below the large scenes in the mirror of the bowls is the coat of arms of the client, Linhart II Tucher (1487–1568) with the shields of his two wives Magdalena Stromer and Katharina Nützel. This second bowl shows the punishment of Psyche by Venus in the setting of a sleeping chamber. Having discovered Cupid's true identity contrary to his ban, Psyche was cast out. She wandered around and had to suffer various trials until she finally reached Venus. However, she has her beaten by her servants with rods, even though Psyche was already pregnant in the meantime. On the outside, all four bowls are decorated with scrollwork, putti, lion heads or masks and delicate arabesques in gold, framed by antique leaves and friezes.