The sculptural composition “Apollo and Daphne” by the Austrian master Jacob Auer, created around 1688-1690, is kept in the Kunsthistorisches Museum in Vienna. Perfectly conveys the emotion and drama of the famous myth told by Ovid in his Metamorphoses.
Kunsthistorisches Museum in Vienna
The myth of Apollo's love for the nymph Daphne and her transformation into a laurel tree has always attracted the attention of artists and sculptors with its deep symbolism and emotional intensity.
Apollo, the god of light and music, falls in love with the beautiful Daphne, who, rejecting his persecution, begs her father for help. He helps her turn into a laurel tree, getting rid of her obsessive admirer.
This moment, when Daphne, transforming, stretches out her arms to her father, and Apollo unsuccessfully tries to hold her, was chosen by Jacob Auer to be embodied in ivory.
Kunsthistorisches Museum in Vienna
The art of Jacob Auer impresses with its skill and subtlety in conveying feelings. His sculpture “Apollo and Daphne” is a combination of movement and static.
Apollo is depicted in a furious and desperate attempt to hold on to the fleeing Daphne, while the nymph is already beginning to transform into a laurel tree. Her arms and legs turn into branches, and her face expresses peace and calm, as if she accepts her fate with dignity.
The material used for this sculpture was also not chosen by chance by the sculptor. Ivory, with its natural texture and shades, gives the piece a special warmth and natural beauty.
Kunsthistorisches Museum in Vienna
It is not surprising that this subject was especially popular among Baroque artists. The whole complexity of human feelings, the struggle between nature and divinity, life and death - all this is reflected in the sculpture of Jacob Auer.
The sculpture "Apollo and Daphne" by Jacob Auer is one of the greatest works of art of the Baroque era, inspiring with its beauty and depth of meaning.
Source: khm.at
