Artwork

Apollo with the Omphalos

Apollo with the Omphalos, by Jan de Bisschop, ink, 1668
Apollo with the Omphalos, by Jan de Bisschop, ink, 1668

Apollo with the Omphalos is an ink print by the Baroque artist Jan de Bisschop. It dates from 1668 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

Apollo with the Omphalos is an etching on laid paper created by Jan de Bisschop in 1668. It is a print held in the National Gallery of Art in Washington.

Subject & Meaning

The etching depicts a bare-chested male figure, identified as Apollo, standing beside a damaged pillar and holding a round stone, likely the omphalos. The scene draws on classical mythology, reflecting the period's interest in ancient themes.

Technique & Style

The artist achieved a three-dimensional effect through shading, giving the figure and stone volume. The etching technique allowed for detailed rendering of textures and forms, including the damaged pillar and the figure's curly hair.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Jan de Bisschop

Artist

Jan de Bisschop

Jan de Bisschop, also known as Johannes Episcopius (1628–1671), was a lawyer, who became a Dutch Golden Age painter and engraver.

This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: National Gallery of Art open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.