The Deceptive Effects of Wealth

Philip Galle, after Maerten van Heemskerck

National Gallery of Art

This is a drawing with a collection of symbolic figures and elements, intricately detailed in a monochromatic tone. On the left, a figure labeled "Honos" holds a smoking vessel. Beside him is "Splendor," who holds a horn and is adorned with luxurious garments. To the right, a larger-than-life figure named "Fama" blows a horn. In the background, a group of figures labeled "Parasiti" appear engaged in a social or economic exchange. Each character is drawn with attention to the folds of their clothing and the textures of their attributes. Below the scene, a Latin inscription serves as an epigram that contextualizes the allegory, touching on themes of vanity, esteem, and the fleeting nature of fame. This work employs classical allegorical elements to convey its themes.