Bilder Jacob Cats (1577–1660) – Allegory of the Power of Money – Etching (1658)

Beskrivning

"Gelt doet gewelt" depicts a central scene within a circular medallion where a group of people gather around an open treasure chest filled with coins. A female figure representing Wealth is seated on a throne to the right, while a man kneels before the chest and others look on with expressions of greed or supplication. This etching was published in Amsterdam as an emblem within the work Saken van State, serving to illustrate the proverb that money wields great power over human affairs. The print is accompanied by dense columns of Dutch text and Latin verses that provide moral commentary on the corrupting influence of riches.

Jacob Cats was a highly influential Dutch poet, jurist, and politician who served as Grand Pensionary of Holland. He is best known for his didactic emblem books, which were immensely popular across all levels of Dutch society and earned him the nickname Father Cats. His writings focused on providing moral guidance on marriage, family life, and civic duty, often paired with sophisticated engravings to reinforce his lessons. Cats’ ability to blend popular wisdom with Calvinist morality made his works a staple of the Dutch household during the Golden Age.

Artist or Maker: Jacob Cats.

Dimensions: Approximately 39 cm x 25 cm.

Medium: Etching.

Date: 1658.

Condition Report:
This work is in good condition overall. There may be a few minor imperfections or fox or mottled marks to be expected with age. Please review the images carefully for condition details, and feel free to contact us with any questions or for a comprehensive condition report.