William-Adolphe Bouguereau was born in La Rochelle (France) in 1825. Although destined to work in the family's wine and olive oil business, his artistic talent came to light rapidly. One of his father's clients convinced the latter to send him to the Ecole des Beaux-Arts, in Bordeaux. He subsequently continued his studies at the Academy in Julian in Paris.
During his life, the artist executed over 882 paintings, often using mythological themes, making modern interpretations of classical subjects, with an emphasis on the female human body. The story of Cupid and Psyche was among his favorite legends in such a way that he painted multiple versions inspired by their forbidden love. He enjoyed significant popularity in France and the United States, was given numerous official honors, and received top prices for his work. Many saw him as the greatest artist of his era.
