The sculpture depicts two human figures engaged in a dynamic scene. One figure appears to be leaping forward, while the other seems to be transforming, with branches emerging from their outstretched arms. Both figures are surrounded by detailed elements like foliage and architectural features in the background. The sculpture is crafted from a bronze material, giving it a metallic, brownish color with a slightly aged patina. It is a circular medallion or relief sculpture, with intricate details that make the figures appear lively and animated despite the static nature of the medium. The composition creates the illusion of movement and interaction between the figures, emphasizing action within the boundaries of the circular form.
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The sculpture depicts two human figures engaged in a dynamic scene. One figure appears to be leaping forward, while the other seems to be transforming, with branches emerging from their outstretched arms. Both figures are surrounded by detailed elements like foliage and architectural features in the background. The sculpture is crafted from a bronze material, giving it a metallic, brownish color with a slightly aged patina. It is a circular medallion or relief sculpture, with intricate details that make the figures appear lively and animated despite the static nature of the medium. The composition creates the illusion of movement and interaction between the figures, emphasizing action within the boundaries of the circular form.

National Gallery of Art · Sculpture

Apollo and Daphne

Master of the Orpheus Legend

Medium
bronze//Dark brown patina
Dimensions
overall (diameter): 5.4 cm (2 1/8 in.) gross weight: 41 gr
Classification
Sculpture · Plaquette
Accession number
1957.14.229
Credit line
Samuel H. Kress Collection
Time span
1401 to 1500
Department
CSD

Subjects and terms

  • Italian
  • classical
  • mythology
  • Renaissance
  • Renaissance Plaquettes
  • Apollo
  • Daphne
Provenance

Gustave Dreyfus [1837-1914], Paris; his estate; purchased 1930 by (Duveen Brothers, Inc., London and New York); purchased 1945 by the Samuel H. Kress Foundation, New York; gift 1957 to NGA.

NGA object ID 43951. Collection metadata is reproduced under CC0. This work is included because its NGA published-image record is marked open access; visitors should recheck the source record before substantial reuse.