Midas Misjudging the Contest between Apollo and Marsyas

Hans Christiaens

National Gallery of Art

The sculpture is a detailed relief on a round medallion. The scene depicted includes several figures, with a central figure playing a stringed instrument, possibly a lyre. Surrounding this figure are other human-like forms, some with features resembling mythological creatures like satyrs. The scene is set against a backdrop of tree branches and foliage. The sculpture is made from a dark, bronze-like material, presented within an intricately detailed circular frame with a braided pattern along the edge. The figures are rendered in high relief, with careful attention to anatomical details, conveying movement and interaction.