Home > Science > Scientists
Pythagorean harmonics, 1492 artwork C016 / 8941
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Science Photo Library
Pythagorean harmonics, 1492 artwork C016 / 8941
Pythagorean harmonics. 15th-century artwork of an account of experiments on musical harmonics and the octave, said to have been carried out by 5th-century BC Ancient Greek philosopher Pythagoras. At upper left (labelled Tubal-Cain, biblical blacksmith) he is listening to the sounds made by blacksmiths at work. At upper right he experiments with different ratios of bells and water-filled glasses. At lower left, stretched strings with different ratios are being plucked. At lower right, Pythagoras and his student Philolaus play pipes in various ratios. Woodcut from Theorica Musice (1492) by Italian music theorist Franchinus Gaffurius (1451-1522)
Science Photo Library features Science and Medical images including photos and illustrations
Media ID 9245433
© SCIENCE, INDUSTRY AND BUSINESS LIBRARY/NEW YORK PUBLIC LIBRARY/ SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY
1400s 1492 15th Century 5th Century Bc Ancient Greece Antiquity Anvil Biblical Book Classical Experiment Experimenting Experiments Harmonic Italy Montage Music Music Theory Musical Natural Philosophy Page Philosopher Pipe Pipes Publication Pythagoras Quartet Researching Scientist Strings Bells Blacksmiths Flute Flutes Jubal Musicologist Octave Philosophers Physical Ratio Smiths
EDITORS COMMENTS
This 15th-century artwork, titled "Pythagorean harmonics" offers a glimpse into the world of musical experimentation and ancient Greek philosophy. Created by Italian music theorist Franchinus Gaffurius in 1492, this woodcut print showcases the legendary Pythagoras and his student Philolaus engaging in various scientific pursuits. In the upper left corner, we see Pythagoras attentively listening to the rhythmic sounds produced by blacksmiths at work. This depiction highlights his belief that harmony could be found not only in music but also in everyday activities. Moving to the upper right, Pythagoras is shown exploring different ratios of bells and water-filled glasses, delving into the mathematical foundations of sound. At lower left, stretched strings with varying ratios are being plucked, symbolizing Pythagoras' groundbreaking discoveries on musical intervals. Finally, at lower right, both Pythagoras and Philolaus play pipes in different proportions—a testament to their exploration of melodic harmonies. Through this intricate montage of scenes from antiquity—featuring elements such as biblical figures Tubal-Cain and Jubal—the artist beautifully captures the essence of Pythagorean principles applied to music theory. This historical illustration serves as a reminder of how early philosophers like Pythagoras laid the foundation for our understanding of acoustics and harmonic relationships. Preserved within these pages lies an invaluable piece of European history—an ode to intellectual curiosity and scientific inquiry that continues to inspire researchers today.
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
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.
