Home > Arts > Artists > K > Athanasius Kircher
Device for listening to conversation in a piazza, illustration from
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Fine Art Finder
Device for listening to conversation in a piazza, illustration from
CHT163695 Device for listening to conversation in a piazza, illustration from Musurgia Universalis by Athanasius Kircher (1601-80) published in Rome, 1650 (engraving) by Italian School, (17th century); Private Collection; (add.info.: Athanasius Kircher (1602-80) German Jesuit scholar and polymath; his Musurgia Universalis is a seminal work of musicology, published in Rome in 2 volumes in 1650 and was very influential in the development of Western music, especially influencing J.S. Bach (1685-1750) and Beethoven (1770-1827); the tubes shown here allowed voices from people speaking in a public place to be carried up to the mouth of a statue in a room above; system based on the compression of sound waves; allegedly invented by Denys the Elder (405-367 BC) tyrant of Syracuse for spying on his courtiers and his people; ); eArchives Charmet; Italian, out of copyright
Media ID 23226134
© Archives Charmet / Bridgeman Images
Acoustic Athanasius Kircher Despot Eavesdropping Espionage Listening Spying Syracuse System Tapping Treatise Big Brother Earpiece Musicology
FEATURES IN THESE COLLECTIONS
> Arts
> Artists
> K
> Athanasius Kircher
> Europe
> Germany
> Music
> Related Images
> Europe
> Italy
> Lazio
> Rome
> Europe
> Italy
> Sicily
> Syracuse
> Fine Art Finder
> Artists
> Amos Bad Heart Buffalo
> Fine Art Finder
> Artists
> Italian School
> Fine Art Finder
> Science,scientists & Inventions
EDITORS COMMENTS
This print showcases a fascinating device for eavesdropping on conversations in a bustling piazza. Taken from the illustrious Musurgia Universalis by Athanasius Kircher, this engraving transports us back to Rome in 1650. The intricate illustration depicts an innovative system designed to carry voices from the public square up to a room above through a network of tubes. Legend has it that this ingenious contraption was originally invented by Denys the Elder, the tyrant of Syracuse, around 400 BC as a means of spying on his courtiers and people. Based on sound wave compression, this acoustic marvel allowed conversations to be discreetly transmitted to the mouth of a statue perched high above. Kircher's Musurgia Universalis is hailed as one of the most influential works in musicology. Its impact reverberated through history, inspiring musical geniuses like J. S. Bach and Beethoven. This particular illustration offers insight into Kircher's wide-ranging interests beyond music, showcasing his fascination with technology and espionage. As we gaze upon this intriguing image, we are reminded of how human curiosity knows no bounds when it comes to unraveling secrets and uncovering hidden truths. It serves as a reminder that even centuries ago, individuals sought ways to tap into private conversations – an early precursor perhaps to our modern-day concerns about surveillance and privacy invasion. Intricately detailed and steeped in historical significance, this print invites us into an enchanting world where artistry meets innovation – where whispers travel through time via ancient devices crafted for clandestine listening purposes.
MADE IN AUSTRALIA
Safe Shipping with 30 Day Money Back Guarantee
FREE PERSONALISATION*
We are proud to offer a range of customisation features including Personalised Captions, Color Filters and Picture Zoom Tools
FREE COLORIZATION SERVICE
You can choose advanced AI Colorization for this picture at no extra charge!
SECURE PAYMENTS
We happily accept a wide range of payment options so you can pay for the things you need in the way that is most convenient for you
* Options may vary by product and licensing agreement. Zoomed Pictures can be adjusted in the Cart.
