Geld c. 1585 - 1590

Curator: This engraving, known as "Geld," or "Money," comes to us from Philips Galle, dating back to around 1585-1590. It’s part of the Rijksmuseum’s collection, an allegorical representation rendered in that distinct Baroque style of line engraving. What’s your first impression? Editor: Austere, yet strangely inviting. The Queen of Money looks remarkably calm, almost resigned to her power. And all those lovely coins glinting at the bottom… one might be tempted to reach in! Curator: Indeed. The print operates as an allegory. The regal figure embodies "Pecunia," which is inscribed above her – the Latin term for money. It speaks volumes about the societal and political sway of wealth during the late 16th century. Editor: Absolutely. I can see the politics dripping from this; almost like she's enthroned by it, bound by it even. What really jumps out at me is how static everything is. She's got this air of weary power…as if it's more obligation than pleasure. A very still photograph. Curator: Note her accoutrements. She bears a scepter adorned with heraldic emblems and coins decorate both her garment and throne—all symbols reinforcing the centrality of wealth and dynasty, don't you agree? Such images, reproduced as prints, were incredibly influential in shaping social perceptions. Editor: And I am rather obsessed by the fabric's texture! Though just lines, Philips has breathed such palpable quality into it! All those fine details serve to deepen that atmosphere, like an elegant cage around something vital. Does the Latin at the bottom add another layer? Curator: It does indeed! Loosely translated, it conveys that as Queen Money, she reigns supreme on Earth and is worshipped by humankind—underscoring both the allure and corrupting potential that contemporaries perceived in wealth. The social commentary couldn't be sharper. Editor: True! Considering our world now, four centuries later…it resonates eerily still! To think Philips managed to say it all using just a few simple lines! Curator: Galle’s Geld stands as a testament to how artistic ingenuity could both reflect and influence society. Editor: An echo through time… reminding us of old fixations and their never-ending ripple.