The Musician and Master

A large, elaborate woodcut or engraving displays the royal coat of arms of the Spanish Monarchy. It specifically reflects the period of the Iberian Union, which lasted from 1580 to 1640. The central shield is complex. It features the castles of Castile, the lions of León, the stripes of Aragon, and the cross of Jerusalem. A central inescutcheon, or small inner shield, bears the five shields known as quinas of Portugal. At the bottom point is the pomegranate representing the Kingdom of Granada. The shield is topped by a large royal crown held by two cherubs. The entire heraldic achievement is encircled by the collar of the Order of the Golden Fleece, a prestigious Catholic order of knighthood, with its characteristic ram pendant at the base. The design is framed by ornate architectural strapwork and decorative masks.

original: "Vnus ut in toto fidei defensor es orbe". While the title Defender of the Faith is often associated with the English monarchy, Cerone applies it here to the Spanish King to emphasize his role as the primary protector of the Catholic Church.

original: "Regis, et o terrarum rex, ut causa superni". The poet addresses the King of Spain as the earthly representative of God's authority.

original: "In terris agitur per te: sic hoc opus almæ". The word "nourishing" probably refers to music or the "nourishing Muse." The sentence is incomplete and likely concludes on the following page, which would formally present the book to the King.