Objekt 1
Allegory of Music, Bern, early 1680s
Description
The painting is said to have come from the estate of Felix Platter (1536-1614). The Renaissance fountain in the center of the picture stands for the spring in ancient Delphi, dedicated to the god Apollo and guarded by the nymph Castalia. The nine muses are grouped around the fountain in period costumes, each with a musical instrument as an attribute; on the left, behind Erato, stands Apollo with a lyre-shaped harp. The harp is assigned to both him and King David as a royal or divine instrument.
In addition to the central mythological figures, there are individuals and groups making music in the outer circle. They reflect the musical practice of the late 15th and first half of the 16th century as well as a specific social environment.
Object description
Polihymnia surrounded by putti and instruments
Joseph Werner (1637-1710)
Bern, early 1680s
Oil on wood
H. 41.5 cm; W. 69.5 cm
Purchase
Inv. no. 1948.302.