May with the sign of Gemini

As the inscription at the bottom states, the subject of this painting is the month of May. The sign of the zodiac Gemini is depicted on a relief with a black background. The face with wreaths of laurel leaves and sun rays is that of Apollo, under whose protection May stands. The arrow and bow form Apollo's favorite weapon, the lyre is his favorite instrument, and the various types of flutes refer to his role as patron god of music. The lion is associated with Apollo because this animal symbolizes the sun. This painting is part of a series of pilaster panels (sk-a-4142 to sk-a-4150), made on commission for Josephus Augustus Brentano (1753-1821) for his house at Herengracht 544.