Artwork

Apollo with his lyre, with Mercury and a muse

Apollo with his lyre, with Mercury and a muse, by Giovanni Battista Cipriani, watercolor, 1750
Apollo with his lyre, with Mercury and a muse, by Giovanni Battista Cipriani, watercolor, 1750

Apollo with his lyre, with Mercury and a muse is a watercolor drawing by the Romanticist artist Giovanni Battista Cipriani. It dates from 1750 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum. This watercolour drawing, created in 1750 by Cipriani, is a circular design featuring three figures in a garden setting.

About this work

Overview

This watercolour drawing, created in 1750 by Cipriani, is a circular design featuring three figures in a garden setting. The artist signed the work, which showcases a serene and idyllic scene.

Subject & Meaning

The scene depicts Apollo, identifiable by his lyre, accompanied by Mercury, who holds a staff with entwined snakes, and a muse. The figures and their attributes reference classical mythology, evoking a sense of antiquity and cultural heritage.

Technique & Style

The drawing is executed in a soft watercolour style, characterized by dreamy figures and a naturalistic setting. The use of flowing lines and subtle colour gradations creates a sense of harmony and tranquility.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Giovanni Battista Cipriani

Artist

Giovanni Battista Cipriani

Giovanni Battista Cipriani (1727 – 14 December 1785) was an Italian painter and engraver, who lived in England from 1755.