Classical Old Master Painting Apollo, Marsyas Music Contest King Midas Judges

Classical 18th Century Italian Baroque Oil Painting – Apollo and Marsyas with King Midas' Judgement

After Filippo Lauri | Mythological Scene | Old Master Work in Gilt Frame

A highly decorative and emotive 18th-century Italian oil on canvas, depicting the classical mythological contest between Apollo and Marsyas, with King Midas presiding as judge. Rich in movement, narrative, and period drama, the work is painted after Filippo Lauri, a key figure in the Roman Baroque tradition.

This large-scale painting offers both visual impact and intellectual depth—ideal for elegant interiors, gallery walls, or refined private collections.

Subject & Style
The scene illustrates the famed Greek myth in which Marsyas, a satyr from Phrygia, challenges Apollo, god of music, to a musical contest. The result is a powerful narrative on pride, punishment, and the boundary between mortals and gods.

Set in a woodland glade beneath a dynamic sky, the composition is classically Baroque—filled with theatrical expression, flowing movement, and finely observed figures. Apollo, poised and assured, contrasts with Marsyas’ tension and intensity. King Midas is depicted seated nearby, delivering judgment.

The painting’s confident handling of chiaroscuro, along with its soft yet vibrant palette, delivers a strong decorative presence.

Medium & Period
Oil on canvas, mid-to-late 18th century
Italian School, in the manner of Filippo Lauri (1623–1694)
Unlined canvas with visible craquelure, commensurate with age
Frame
Set within an original gilt gesso Baroque frame, elaborately carved with foliate and scrollwork detailing
Frame Dimensions: 72 cm high x 97.5 cm wide x 4.5 cm deep
Weight (unwrapped): Approx. 9kg
The frame adds significant decorative and historical value and complements the richness of the composition.

Condition
Presented in good antique condition with expected signs of age:

Craquelure across surface
Localised areas of paint loss, retouching, and historic repairs
Minor foxing to canvas reverse
Wear and chipping to the gilt frame
These characteristics contribute to its authenticity and aged charm.

Attribution
Unsigned, as typical for many studio or follower works of the period
Attributed to the Italian School, after Filippo Lauri—a member and later director of the Accademia di San Luca, known for elegant mythological compositions and collaborations with Claude Lorrain
Provenance
Private collection, Northern England
Previously sold through Tennants Auctioneers
Now part of the curated selection at Cheshire Antiques Consultant Ltd
Why We Love It
Decorative scale and dramatic Baroque composition
Thought-provoking subject matter with strong classical roots
Elegant use of colour, light, and form—perfect for traditional or eclectic interiors
A true conversation piece with both historical and aesthetic appeal
A striking Old Master painting, rich in atmosphere and mythological drama—offered ready to hang in its original period frame.

Enquiries and viewings welcome.