GIRARDON, François
(b. 1628, Troyes, d. 1715, Paris)

Apollon and the Nymphs (detail)

1666-73
Marble, life-size
Apollo Grotto, Versailles

The lively setting, animated by lifelike details done from nature (such as the amphora, so accurately rendered with all its relief carving), may readily be imagined as part of a ballet or opera with music by Lully.