1. The problem asks for the equation of the axis of symmetry and the coordinates of the vertex of a parabola. 2. The axis of symmetry of a parabola in vertex form $y = a(x-h)^2 + k$ is the vertical line $x = h$, where $(h,k)$ is the vertex. 3. From the graph description, the vertex is at about $(4, -4)$, so the axis of symmetry is $x = 4$. 4. Therefore, the correct answer is option (3): axis of symmetry $x = 4$ and vertex $(4, -4)$. Final answer: (3) $x = 4$ and $(4, -4)$.