Plate Eleven of Triumph of Death, Triumph of Divinity, Triumph of Poverty 1780

Editor: This is Plate Eleven of Triumph of Death, Triumph of Divinity, Triumph of Poverty by Christian von Mechel. It feels like a grim social commentary with Death waltzing with figures of different social classes. What do you see in this piece? Curator: Well, it’s fascinating how Mechel utilizes the danse macabre motif to critique societal structures. The skeleton as an allegorical figure democratizes death, doesn't it? Regardless of status, everyone faces the same end. Editor: Yes, it’s like a macabre social leveler. How would this have been received in its time? Curator: Considering the Enlightenment context, this print probably fueled debates about social justice and the role of institutions in perpetuating inequality. The starkness of the imagery would certainly provoke thought. Editor: It’s amazing how art can encapsulate and comment on social issues so effectively. Curator: Indeed. It serves as a potent reminder of the transient nature of power and earthly possessions.