The Book of Playing Cards (1588) - Page 21

Just as Triptolemus In Greek mythology, Triptolemus was the figure who taught humankind the art of agriculture. once scattered for the world's use,

the fertile seeds of crops with a divine hand:

So the art of printing Arte typographicathe craft of book production using moveable type enriches future ages,

the beautiful symbols of which shine upon this page.

An elaborate woodcut coat of arms for the printer Sigmund Feyerabend. The central shield is divided into three sections: the upper left section depicts a rampant lion, and the upper right contains diagonal bands with a bird perched above. The bottom section features a rampant lion holding a printing ink-ball, also known as a dabber. Above the shield sits a winged cherub head. This is topped by a flat ceremonial hat or crown from which stalks of wheat emerge. The shield is surrounded by ornamental scrollwork, including cornucopias at the bottom overflowing with fruit and grapes. Tall stalks of grain flank the sides.

Just as Triptolemus first sowed

the whole world with wheat, grain, and every seed,

from which the world still sustains itself:

So, with a skillful hand, the widely praised

Sigmund Feyerabend scatters many noble arts through every land,

as shown by the coat of arms Wappena heraldic symbol representing a family or individual on this page.