Bedrog leidt het volk naar de ondergang 1604

This engraving, “Bedrog leidt het volk naar de ondergang,” was created in 1604 by the Dutch artist Dirck Volckertsz Coornhert. It depicts a scene of deception and manipulation, with a woman leading a group of people towards their downfall, likely a reference to the dangers of false idols and empty promises. The central figure, a woman, appears to be holding a mask with the face of a man, signifying the deceptive nature of her intentions. The intricate details and use of light and shadow in this artwork are characteristic of Coornhert's style. This engraving, now part of the Rijksmuseum collection, offers a powerful commentary on the perils of trusting blindly in those who offer deceitful promises.