Objekt 1
Allegory of music by Joseph Werner, 1680s
Description
The painting allegedly came from the possession of Felix Platter (1536-1614).
The Renaissance fountain in the center of the painting stands for the spring in ancient Delphi, dedicated to the god Apollo and guarded by the nymph Kastalia.
Around the fountain are grouped the nine muses in period costumes, each with a musical instrument as an attribute; on the left, behind Erato, stands Apollo with a lyre-shaped harp. To him, as well as to King David, the harp is assigned 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
the first half of the 16th century as well as a certain 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.