Apollo and the Muses

Hans Süss von Kulmbach

National Gallery of Art

This is a drawing of classical figures surrounded by symbolic elements. The image features a central grouping of three primary figures, one of whom is marked as "Phebus," flanked by various other figures, each labeled with names such as "Urania," "Calliope," and "Melpomene." These figures are enclosed within circular frames that are integrated into an ornate border filled with floral motifs and scrolls. The figures appear to represent the classical muses and other mythological characters, with specific attributes or symbols they are often associated with, suggesting their roles and domains in mythology.