Apollo and Daphne

The mythological painting Apollo and Daphne was created by John Singer Sargent between 1916 and 1919. Executed in oil on canvas, this late work belongs firmly to the American cultural movement of the early 20th century, classifying it within the crucial period 1901 to 1925. This composition revisits a celebrated theme from Ovid’s Metamorphoses, illustrating the moment the sun god Apollo pursues the fleeing nymph Daphne, culminating in her transformation into a laurel tree to escape his advances. This canvas currently resides within the esteemed permanent collection of the National Gallery of Art.

By the time Sargent executed this work, he had largely moved away from the society portraits that defined his earlier fame, focusing instead on expansive mythological subjects, mural studies, and landscapes. The subject matter here reflects the artist’s ongoing engagement with classical narrative and allegory, themes he explored extensively in his later life, particularly through the large decorative cycles he undertook. Although specific technique details are often minimized in catalog descriptions, Sargent’s signature late style is characterized by a bravura, fluid application of paint, emphasizing dramatic movement and high contrast typical of high-stakes visual storytelling.

The dedication to classical themes in this painting contrasts sharply with the backdrop of global conflict defining the historical years between 1916 and 1919. However, this focus on timeless mythology ensured the enduring relevance of this American master. Sargent’s command of composition and light cemented his status as a key figure bridging late Impressionism and early Modernism. Reflecting the lasting legacy of his genius, high-quality prints and digital images of Sargent’s prolific output, including major works like this, are frequently found entering the public domain, guaranteeing continued accessibility for students and enthusiasts worldwide.