Lyra
1600x1300mm
oil on canvas
2026
First mentioned:
Onomaklyton Orphēn by Obycus, ca. 600-500 BCE
The Story of Orpheus and Eurydice
Orpheus was a gifted musician whose beautiful music could charm animals, move trees, and even soften the hearts of the gods. He played the lyre, an instrument said to have been invented by Hermes. After falling deeply in love with Eurydice, the two were married. However, their happiness was short-lived. While fleeing from a shepherd who pursued her, Eurydice stepped on a poisonous snake and died.
Devastated by her death, Orpheus journeyed into the Underworld, determined to bring her back. His music was so beautiful that even Hades, ruler of the dead, and his wife Persephone were moved by his grief. They agreed to release Eurydice on one condition: Orpheus must walk ahead of her and never look back until they had both reached the world above.
Orpheus obeyed until they were almost outside. Doubt and fear overcame him, and he turned to look at Eurydice. At that moment, she was pulled back into the Underworld, disappearing from his sight forever.
As one of the very few mortals to return from Hades, Orpheus emerged into the world alone, mourning Eurydice. After his death, the gods placed his lyre among the stars, where it became the constellation Lyra. His story remains a lasting symbol of love, loss, and the tragic consequences of doubt.
