Book Title: Andreae Alciati emblematvm libellvs.

Author: Alciati, Andrea, 1492-1550

Image Title: The Gods Care for Music

Description: The pictura of this emblem by the Italian jurist and writer Andrea Alciati (1492 – 1550 CE) features a statue comprised of a lyre and plectrum resting atop a pedestal and a cicada sitting on the lyre’s strings. According to ancient Greek sources, this statue was set up by Locrian Eunomus, an accomplished lyrist and singer, to commemorate his remarkable victory in the song contest at the Pythian Games. During his performance, one of his lyre’s strings snapped. Then a cicada flew onto the lyre and supplied Eunomus with its melodious song, thus restoring the instrument’s sound and aiding in Eunomus’ victory.

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