Man wordt door de dood gehaald 1609

Willem van Swanenburg created this print, “Man wordt door de dood gehaald,” which translates to "Man Being Taken by Death," around the turn of the 17th century, using engraving. In it, we see a wealthy man pleading with Lady Fortune, perched atop a pile of coins. But Death, armed with an arrow, is unmoved by wealth or status. This work reflects the anxieties of a society undergoing significant economic and social change, the rise of merchant capitalism, and the stark realities of life during times of plague and high mortality rates. The image plays on the themes of mortality and earthly vanity. Death serves as a stark reminder of the fleeting nature of life and the futility of material possessions. The contrast between the man's opulent attire and Death's gaunt figure underscores the inescapable destiny that awaits everyone, regardless of their station. This piece invites us to reflect on our own values and the legacy we leave behind, urging a consideration of what truly matters beyond the material world.