Apollo, from a set of six pagan divinities with grotesques on black grounds

Engraving, part of a set of six representations of pagan divinities with grotesque motifs on black grounds, created by Étienne Delaune before 1573. This print represents Apollo, standing under an arch made up of two branches of laurel, one of his attributes, which flank two poles around which interlace two serpents, also attributes of Apollo, likely because of his triumph over Python, and also symbols of caution. He holds an arrow on one hand, and leans the other hand on a bow, which stands behind his right leg; a lira stands on the other side. On the lower corners of the composition are two lions, representations of the astrological "planet" of Apollo; on the upper corners are two sphinxes, likely representing knowledge (alluding to Apollo's position as a protector of arts and sciences), and vigilance. Another image of vigilance is presented in the two terms with human torsos and crane heads, on either side of Apollo. Behind them are two fuming urns, likely symbols of the vanity of terrestrial things, and in front of them are two lobsters, likely recalling the inconstancy of which they are attributes. Together, they seem to invoke vanity and inconstancy as characteristics of Apollo, likely suggesting that these are defects that may emerge from the development of the arts and sciences in a purely profane setting; thus the need for vigilance or caution. The presence of two male thinkers between Apollo and the terms, remains enigmatic in this representation.