The artwork titled “Apollo with the Solar Disc” is a pen and ink creation by German artist Albrecht Dürer, dating back to circa 1504. This piece is a testament to Dürer’s prowess within the Northern Renaissance movement, and exemplifies mythological painting as its genre. The drawing is part of the collection at the British Museum in London, United Kingdom, showcasing the artist’s adept use of detail and form to depict classical themes.
In this artwork, we see a rendition of Apollo, the mythological Greek god associated with many aspects, including the sun, depicted here holding a radiant solar disc that bears the name “APOLO”. His figure is rendered with masterful anatomical precision, showcasing Dürer’s skill in depicting the human form. Apollo stands confidently, almost in contrapposto, with a bow in his left hand further emphasizing his role as an archer deity. The background is relatively sparse but conveys a sense of the heavens with wispy clouds, suggesting Apollo’s connection to the divine. The use of light and shadow in the pen strokes gives depth and realism to this mythological scene.
