De dood is de armen welkom 1595 - 1600

This etching, "De dood is de armen welkom" (Death is welcome to the poor), by Johann Sadeler I, is a powerful depiction of death's embrace. Created between 1595 and 1600, the artwork features a skeletal figure, Death, entering a humble dwelling. The scene showcases a family, some grieving, others indifferent, as Death arrives. The contrast between the bleakness of death and the daily life of the poor provides a poignant commentary on the inevitability of mortality, and the theme of Death's welcome for those who have endured hardship. The detailed rendering and the juxtaposition of contrasting emotions illustrate the intricate dance between life and death. This work offers a glimpse into the artistic expression of the 16th century and the complex themes of mortality and social inequality.