The Consular Diptych of Verona

This is a Byzantine diptych depicting Emperor Anastasius I enthroned with circus scenes in the lower section. Among the figures a hydraulic organ can be seen being played during public celebrations. The instrument, seen in semi-profile, presents a water cistern on a plinth, flanked by two air pumps operated by young attendants. The wind chest supports 6 open pipes, held by two oblique bars, with the treble pipes to the right of the organist. The musician, a young curly-haired man, plays with both hands and appears to coordinate the performance with the acrobatics of a juggler depicted beside him. The ensemble bears witness to the use of the hydraulis in ceremonies and public games of the Byzantine court, in a festive context no longer linked to the gladiatorial dimension of the preceding centuries.