Attibuted to Michelangelo Maestri (Italian, d. 1812)

Companions of Apollo, daughters of Jupiter and Mnemosyne (Memory), these nine classical Muses are associated with inspiration and learning. Each of these Muses holds a sphere of influence over poetry, song and other arts. Standing atop a plinth like an animated statue each Muse is depicted interacting with their objects signifying poetry, astronomy and theatre.