Honest and Dishonest Ways of Becoming Rich

Philip Galle, after Maerten van Heemskerck

National Gallery of Art

The image shows a group of seven allegorical figures. Each figure is labeled with a name above their head, arranged in a line from left to right. The figures are named "Fortuna," "Labor," "Diligentia," "Parsimonia," "Fraus," "Mendacium," and "Vis." "Fortuna" is depicted as a blindfolded, winged female figure holding a vessel and a rudder. "Labor" is a muscular figure with wings holding a spade. "Diligentia" is an elderly woman carrying a spindle. "Parsimonia" holds a purse. "Fraus" is shown with a theatrical mask and a dagger. "Mendacium" is depicted in a sinister cloak. "Vis" is dressed as a soldier with a staff or spear. The figures are detailed, with expressive postures conveying various human traits and vices. The style is reminiscent of Northern Renaissance or Mannerist artworks.