Artwork

Apollo and Nymphs in a Landscape with a Bust of Pan

Apollo and Nymphs in a Landscape with a Bust of Pan, by Francesco Fontebasso, ink, 1744
Apollo and Nymphs in a Landscape with a Bust of Pan, by Francesco Fontebasso, ink, 1744

Apollo and Nymphs in a Landscape with a Bust of Pan is an ink print by the Baroque artist Francesco Fontebasso. It dates from 1744 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

Apollo and Nymphs in a Landscape with a Bust of Pan is an etching on laid paper created by Francesco Fontebasso in 1744. The print depicts a mythological scene set within a landscape.

Subject & Meaning

The scene features classical figures, including a man pointing towards something, two women with musical instruments, and people gathered around a rocky area with a large snake. A sculptural bust is also present, adding to the mythological atmosphere.

Technique & Style

The artist achieved a three-dimensional effect through shading, creating a sense of movement and drama with the twisted snake and varied human poses. As an etching, the print showcases Fontebasso's skill in translating his artistic vision into a detailed, black-and-white image.

History & Provenance

Fontebasso, a Venetian painter influenced by Sebastiano Ricci and Giovanni Battista Tiepolo, worked on various commissions, including projects in Saint Petersburg and decorative works in Venice, before and after creating this print.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Francesco Fontebasso

Artist

Francesco Fontebasso

Francesco Fontebasso (4 October 1707 – 31 May 1769) was an Italian painter of the late-Baroque or Rococo period of Venice.

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