The robber gang’s housekeeper comforts the young girl by telling the myth of Cupid and Psyche; Røverbandens husholderske trøster den unge pige ved at fortælle myten om Amor og Psyche. Motiv fra Apulejus, Det gyldne æsel Nicolai Abraham Abildgaard (1743-1809)

The composition presents a domestic interior steeped in shadow, illuminated by a single source of light emanating from a lamp positioned on a table to the left. Here we see two figures engaged in what appears to be a narrative exchange. A young girl, clad in a simple white garment, sits attentively facing an older woman who is gesturing animatedly with her hands. The girl’s posture suggests rapt attention and vulnerability; she leans slightly forward, her gaze fixed on the storyteller.

The older woman, presumably the housekeeper, is dressed in more modest attire – a dark blue skirt and a pinkish-purple overdress, topped with a white headscarf that obscures much of her hair. Her face, though partially hidden by shadow, conveys an expression of earnestness and perhaps gentle authority. The presence of a donkey standing near her introduces a symbolic layer; its association with the narrative context – the myth of Cupid and Psyche as recounted in Apuleius’ The Golden Ass – is immediately apparent. Scattered around the base of the composition are several chickens, adding to the overall sense of rustic domesticity.

The artist has employed a limited palette dominated by dark tones – browns, blues, and blacks – which contribute to an atmosphere of intimacy and quiet contemplation. The stark contrast between the brightly lit figures and the surrounding darkness draws the viewer’s focus directly onto their interaction. This use of chiaroscuro not only enhances the dramatic effect but also suggests a metaphorical illumination – the story itself acting as a source of comfort and guidance for the young girl.

Subtleties within the scene hint at deeper meanings. The juxtaposition of youth and age, innocence and experience, underscores the transmission of wisdom and cultural heritage across generations. The myth being recounted likely serves as an allegory for overcoming adversity through perseverance and faith – themes that resonate with the context of a household associated with “robbers.” The donkey, traditionally linked to folly and transformation, might symbolize the journey of self-discovery inherent in both the mythological narrative and the girl’s own life. The overall impression is one of solace offered within a confined space, suggesting resilience and hope amidst challenging circumstances.