COURTESY PHOTO "Psyche," 1849, is a marble bust by American Hiram Powers, the most successful sculptor of the 19th century. Powers became famous for his sculptors of ideal figures. Psyche, symbolized by the flower in the woman's hair, personified the human soul. Powers's image of Psyche is the classic evocation of human beauty, which had great appeal in the 19th century.

History lesson

AMERICAN Colonial heritage is the focus of "Cherished Possessions: A New England Legacy," which displays some 175 objects from New England that spans the 17th to 20th centuries.

On exhibition at the Honolulu Academy of Arts through Jan. 2, "Cherished Possessions" explores the lifestyle of people from the earliest days of our country through several generations. Objects include paintings, furniture, needlework, ceramics, jewelry, photographs and textiles.

The show is presented chronologically and thematically, with such sections as religion, the Revolution, slavery and the early nation. Objects reflect more than simple artistry; they also tell stories about the lives of the early settlers of our country, and thus, about American history.

Notable objects include elaborate Massachusetts-made desks from the 18th century, a still life oil by Dutch master Willem Claesz and a gold cameo set crafted by a Roman jeweler for an affluent Bostonian family.

The exhibit is curated by Nancy Carlisle, who has worked for 16 years with the Society for the Preservation of New England Antiquities; the society organized the show. "Cherished Possessions" marks the first time in the society's 90-year history that some of its finest pieces are being displayed outside New England.

The Honolulu Academy of Arts is located at 900 S. Beretania St. Hours are 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Tuesdays to Saturdays and 1 to 5 p.m. Sundays. Admission is $7 general, $4 seniors, students and military, and free to children 12 and under. Call 532-8700 for more information.

COURTESY PHOTO The silk wedding dress at top was the height of fashion in 1839 when it was made for Susan Capen Everett of Boston.

COURTESY PHOTO Silk satin shoes, the latest London fashion in the 18th century, were available to wealthy Bostonians. Like most shoes of the time, they have no right or left. The long tabs were fastened by buckles, which were interchangable and worn like jewelry.

COURTESY PHOTO An ornately carved Rosewood armchair, circa 1850, which graced parlors in maritime towns around New England. It was made in Bombay, India.