[1] The discus had been blown off course by the west wind Zephyrus, who was also in love with young Hyacinthos and was jealous of Apollo.

The painting displays Apollo, recognizable by his red cape and lyre, cradling Hyacinth as he stumbles.

The young man is struck with a fatal blow; he is dying in Apollo’s arms, who changes him into the flower that bears his name (see previously referenced page).

Egyptian mythology, on which the Greeks probably founded their entire religious system, tells us that Apollo, son of Zeus, was gifted with extraordinary beauty, such that the sun was named after him.

This prince, who was equally commendable for his spiritual qualities as for his external beauty, was the first to teach science and art to the Egyptians.

The simple and crude folk saw their prince as an extraordinary man; Apollo took advantage of their credulity to rule them with even greater influence, and always with wisdom.

During his stay on Earth, Apollo invents the lyre, skins Marsias alive who had dared challenge him to a contest of music, and made Midas grow donkey ears for having awarded victory to Pan.

His misfortunes soften the ire of Jupiter, who brings him back to the heavens and restores his divinity and his powers.