Satyr Playing the Lyre

Sebald Beham

National Gallery of Art

The image shows a mythical creature, likely a satyr, depicted in a seated position on a stone block. The satyr's full body is visible, with a muscular upper torso covered in fur-like texture, transitioning into goat-like legs with hooves. The creature is positioned in profile, facing to the right, and is playing a lyre, which is held with both hands. The satyr has a prominent facial structure with a broad nose, thick eyebrows, and a pronounced brow. Its hair is curly and unruly, with pointed ears emerging from the curls. No clothing is visible, highlighting its half-man, half-goat form. The background consists of tall, stylized grasses or reeds. In the top left corner of the image, there is a small, rectangular banner containing the initials "ISB." The overall composition is richly detailed with crosshatching and intricate line work.