A cartouche with a violin coming out of its case, a skull with a helmet with feathers at top, from 'Eight Emblems for the Funeral of Francesco de Medici' (Huit emblèmes pour les funérailles du prince François de Médicis) 1640 - 1660

This etching by Stefano della Bella, one of the most important Italian printmakers of the 17th century, is part of a series of eight emblems created for the funeral of Francesco de Medici. The artwork features a cartouche, an ornamental shield, with a violin emerging from its case, a skull with a feathered helmet, and a ribbon inscribed with the words "Cantet Tibi Gloria." The image is a poignant reminder of the fleeting nature of life, contrasting the beauty of music with the inevitability of death.