Apollo and Daphne 1582

Jonas Silber’s 1582 print "Apollo and Daphne" depicts the Greek myth of the god Apollo’s pursuit of the nymph Daphne, who is transformed into a laurel tree to escape his advances. The circular composition features a detailed landscape, including a town nestled in a valley, a river, and lush vegetation. In the foreground, Apollo chases Daphne, while Cupid, perched above, aims an arrow toward the pair. The scene is rendered with fine detail, showcasing Silber's skill in depicting both natural and urban settings. This etching, created just before the artist’s untimely death at age 18, showcases his precocious talent and mastery of the printmaking medium.