Who painted Psyche Throwing Herself into the River?

Psyche Throwing Herself into the River was painted by William Morris in 1866.

Where can I see Psyche Throwing Herself into the River?

Psyche Throwing Herself into the River is held by Cleveland Museum of Art.

What movement is Psyche Throwing Herself into the River?

Psyche Throwing Herself into the River is associated with Impressionism.

Artwork

Psyche Throwing Herself into the River

William Morris , 1866

Psyche Throwing Herself into the River is a print by the Impressionist artist William Morris. It dates from 1866 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.

Accession no.: 1981.90
Credit line: Gift of The Print Club of Cleveland

About this work

He and his friend Edward Burne-Jones worked on 24 stories, but only this one was ever finished.

A young woman stands in a river, her long hair swirling in the water as she sobs. The scene feels still, like a held breath.

This print was meant to illustrate a book of myths retold by William Morris. He and his friend Edward Burne-Jones worked on 24 stories, but only this one was ever finished. The project fell apart when they couldn’t find a publisher.

To see more of Morris’s designs, look up William Morris (British, 1834–1896).

Overview

This print, 'Psyche Throwing Herself into the River', is a rare example of a collaborative work between William Morris and Edward Burne-Jones that was brought to completion.

Subject & Meaning

The scene depicts Psyche, a mortal from ancient mythology, abandoning herself to a river in despair after being forsaken by her lover, Cupid.

Technique & Style

The image is characterized by a sense of stillness, with Psyche's long hair flowing into the water as she stands sobbing.

History & Provenance

Originally intended to illustrate Morris's retelling of ancient myths, the project was abandoned due to the inability to secure a publisher, ultimately leading Morris to establish the Kelmscott Press.

Artist & collection

Artist

William Morris

William Morris (24 March 1834 – 3 October 1896) was an English textile designer, poet, artist, writer, and socialist activist associated with the British Arts and Crafts movement.