12/06/2026
This remarkable statue took 12 years to complete. Pastoral Apollo was commissioned by the 3rd Earl of Egremont from renowned sculptor John Flaxman. Although the sculpture is signed and dated 1825, the first payment was made as early as 1813.
In Greek mythology, Apollo was one of the Twelve Olympian gods, celebrated as a symbol of light, youthful beauty, and reason. He was also closely connected with the care of flocks and herds.
Here, Flaxman portrays Apollo as the protector of shepherds, capturing both the god’s strength and his pastoral role in a marble masterpiece. He stands prominently in the North Gallery at Petworth.
📷National Trust Images/Mike Cole/Stuart Cox