Koning David 1577

This is Johann Sadeler's engraving of King David, now held at the Rijksmuseum. The image is dominated by David himself, crowned and holding a harp, symbols of his royalty and his renowned musical talent. The harp, central to this image, carries a rich history. We see its predecessors in ancient Mesopotamian art, where it was used in religious ceremonies. Its form has shifted over millennia, yet it consistently evokes themes of harmony and divine connection. In David's case, the harp is not merely an instrument but a conduit, his music said to soothe King Saul's madness, a testament to its psychological power. Consider the power of music, its ability to stir deep emotions and memories, engaging the viewer on a subconscious level, much like the ancient Greeks believed in music’s power to heal and purify the soul. This symbol continues its cyclical progression through history, resurfacing in various forms, each time carrying echoes of its past.