The Rich Man on His Deathbed, from The Parable of Lazarus and the Rich Man, plate 2 1551

"The Rich Man on His Deathbed" (1551) by Dirck Volckertsz Coornhert is a detailed etching depicting the biblical parable of Lazarus and the rich man. The print portrays the moment of the rich man's death, surrounded by mourners and figures tending to him. The composition is dynamic, with figures clustered around the bed and the rich man's body positioned centrally. The rich man appears to be in great pain, his face contorted in suffering. The dramatic lighting and use of line create a sense of both realism and emotion, making this scene a compelling visual meditation on mortality. The print's subject matter is a reminder of the importance of humility and charity, themes that resonated deeply with audiences of the 16th century.