Sterfbed van de rijke man 1646

This engraving, called "Sterfbed van de rijke man" or "Deathbed of a Rich Man," was made in the Netherlands by an anonymous artist. The print renders a stark warning about the perils of wealth. In the image, we see a wealthy man on his deathbed, surrounded by concerned onlookers. But note the devilish figure reaching for his soul, as angels ascend to heaven behind him. This image draws on religious beliefs prevalent in 17th-century Netherlands, a time when Calvinism emphasized the importance of piety and warned against the corrupting influence of material possessions. The Dutch Republic was also one of the earliest capitalist states, in which social mobility was unprecedented. Prints such as these played a crucial role in shaping public morality and reaffirming societal values. By examining the print alongside historical sermons, pamphlets, and other cultural artifacts, we can gain a deeper appreciation for the social and cultural forces that shaped its creation and reception.