Sketch for Apollo and Daphne

In this preparatory study for Apollo and Daphne, the two centrally-placed figures are presented more dynamically than in the final drawing. Daphne’s transformation has not yet begun and, in the background, Peneus’ recumbent posture is less dignified than in the gouache. Madrazo experiments with positions and outlines, and frames the scene with a semicircular arch; the landscape background is merely sketched.