Alciato's Book of Emblems

Emblem 132

From difficulties, a lasting fame

A sparrow had entrusted her family to the branches of a plane tree, and safely too, had they not been noticed by a savage snake. All the chicks and their wretched mother this creature devoured. Deserving of such a death, the snake was turned to stone. If Calchas does not lie, these are the records of long labour, whose fame goes on for ever.