If Music Be the Food of Art

Music has been a muse for artists from antiquity through subsequent centuries, with musicians and singers depicted as raconteurs, divinities, and in myths. 
If Music Be the Food of Art
“The Musicians,” 1597, by Caravaggio. Oil on canvas. The Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York City. Public Domain
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William Shakespeare wrote famously, “If music be the food of love, play on.” That same sentiment could be applied to music as fuel and inspiration for fine art.

Music has been a muse for artists since antiquity, with musicians and singers depicted as raconteurs, as divinities, and in myths. Examining a selection of historical artworks through a lens of music affords a unique understanding and appreciation of music and artistic periods.

The Cycladic Harpist

Michelle Plastrik
Michelle Plastrik
Author
Michelle Plastrik is an art adviser living in New York City. She writes on a range of topics, including art history, the art market, museums, art fairs, and special exhibitions.
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