Unequal Lovers 1615

"Unequal Lovers" (1615) by Hendrick Goltzius depicts a scene of romance with a satirical edge. The painting showcases an older man, possibly a wealthy merchant, adorned in a fur-trimmed hat and a gold ring, embracing a younger woman. He holds a purse, highlighting the likely financial transaction underlying their relationship. Goltzius, a master of the Mannerist style, utilized exaggerated features and distorted perspectives to create a captivating, if somewhat unsettling, portrayal of love and money in 17th-century Dutch society. The artwork is notable for its bold contrasts in color, the intricate details in the figures' clothing, and the subtle yet suggestive expressions on their faces, all contributing to a sense of intrigue and moral commentary.