The competition between satyr Marsyas and god Apollo demonstrates, if nothing else, the unquestionable superiority of the gods above all other creatures and beings. Apollo challenged Marsyas to a flute playing competition after hearing local peasants boast about his talent. The Muses were called upon as a jury. Both Apollo and Marsyas received praise for their efforts until Apollo remarked:
I challenge you to do with your instrument as much as I can do with mine. Turn it upside down, and play and sing at the same time.
As expected, Marsyas failed and Apollo was granted winner. Meier’s engraving illustrates Apollo flaying Marsyas, his chosen revenge on a creature that dared to challenge a god at his craft.
