Oude man schudt zak geld leeg, mogelijk de heilige Petrus 1744

Francesco Polanzani created this print, "Old Man Shaking a Bag of Money, Possibly Saint Peter," in 1744. The image presents a man, possibly the saint, emptying a bag of coins. This work originated within a specific institutional context: it was made "in Museo Sac. Majestatis Polonicæ", or, in the Museum of His Sacred Polish Majesty. This suggests the print was likely commissioned or created for the Polish royal collection. During this period, art served to enhance the prestige and power of the monarchy. Consider the implications of depicting a saint handling money. Was Polanzani commenting on the role of the Church and its relationship to wealth? Or was he reflecting on social inequality? Understanding such images requires us to consult historical records, theological texts, and economic data. In doing so we discover the complex interplay of art, power, and belief in 18th-century Poland.