Artwork

Apollo

Apollo, by Dosso Dossi, oil, 1525
Apollo, by Dosso Dossi, oil, 1525

Apollo is an oil painting by the Mannerist artist Dosso Dossi. It dates from 1525 and is held in the collection of the Galleria Borghese.

About this work

Overview

This 1525 oil painting, 'Apollo', is the work of Dosso Dossi, a prominent artist of the Italian Renaissance. It is housed in the Galleria Borghese.

Subject & Meaning

The painting depicts Apollo, the mythological figure, in a dynamic pose, holding a bow and arrow. His determined expression and posture convey a sense of action. The scene is set amidst a serene landscape, with a body of water, trees, and hills.

Technique & Style

The work showcases Dossi's use of oil paint to create a harmonious palette, with the green of Apollo's cloak echoing the surrounding landscape. The painting's dream-like atmosphere is characteristic of Dossi's style, which was influenced by Venetian artists like Giorgione and Titian.

History & Provenance

As court artist to the Este Dukes of Ferrara, Dossi produced works that reflected the court's artistic reputation. 'Apollo' is a testament to his role in this cultural context.

Context

Dossi's work was likely influenced by his collaboration with his brother Battista, who had trained under Raphael. The painting exemplifies the artistic tastes of the Este court during the Italian Renaissance.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Dosso Dossi

Artist

Dosso Dossi

Giovanni di Niccolò de Luteri, better known as Dosso Dossi (c. 1489–1542) was an Italian Renaissance painter who belonged to the School of Ferrara, painting in a style mainly influenced by Venetian painting, in…

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