.jpg?w=1)
Lot Essay
The present painting is one of three known versions of this subject by Lastman (the others being in Saint Petersburg and Kassel). Identified in the early literature as the Contest between Apollo and Marsyas, it actually depicts the Judgment of Midas. Lastman followed Ovid's account (Metamorphoses XI, 179) quite closely. Timolus, the mountain deity, seated in the center, has judged a contest between Apollo and Pan, who appears on the right holding his pipes. Timolus correctly chose the musical gifts of Apollo over those of Pan, who initiated the contest. However, King Midas, at the right edge of the painting, indicates his disagreement by pointing to Pan. For his foolish judgment he is made to grow ass ears.
This subject was a popular theme in both Italy and the North in the 16th and 17th centuries. Midas' punishment may be seen as a warning against choices for earthly enjoyments, but the judgment of Midas may be interpreted as an allegory of the uninformed connoisseur. The Birmingham catalogue (see above) notes a certificate by W.R. Valentiner dated 27 June 1946, stating the painting was by Lastman.
This subject was a popular theme in both Italy and the North in the 16th and 17th centuries. Midas' punishment may be seen as a warning against choices for earthly enjoyments, but the judgment of Midas may be interpreted as an allegory of the uninformed connoisseur. The Birmingham catalogue (see above) notes a certificate by W.R. Valentiner dated 27 June 1946, stating the painting was by Lastman.