The Deceptive Effects of Wealth
Medium
engraving on laid paper
Dimensions
plate: 18.1 x 24 cm (7 1/8 x 9 7/16 in.) sheet: 27 x 36 cm (10 5/8 x 14 3/16 in.)
Classification
Department
CG-E
Museum
National Gallery of Art, Washington, D.C.
Credit
Gift of the Estate of Leo Steinberg
Accession Number
2011.139.89
Art Historical Context
Created in 1563, *The Deceptive Effects of Wealth* is an engraving by Philip Galle after a design by the Dutch artist Maerten van Heemskerck. This print exemplifies the vibrant Northern Renaissance tradition of moralizing imagery, where visual storytelling served to convey ethical lessons to a broad audience. Heemskerck, known for his dynamic compositions and classical influences, provided the original drawing, while Galle’s skilled engraving technique translated it into a reproducible format on laid paper. The title suggests a cautionary narrative about the illusions and pitfalls of riches, ...