Death and the Miser
Artist
Frans Fracken II
(Flemish, 1581 - 1642)
CultureFlemish
Dateca. 17th century
MediumOil on panel
DimensionsOverall: 11 3/16 x 11 3/16 in. (28.4 x 28.4 cm)
Overall, Frame: 14 7/8 x 14 7/8 in. (37.8 x 37.8 cm)
Overall, Frame: 14 7/8 x 14 7/8 in. (37.8 x 37.8 cm)
InscribedCradle numbered "#100 94.F"
Credit LineGift of Mr. Eugene L. Garbaty
Object number57.42.12
Collections
Not on view
DescriptionA rich, old man, seated at a table and surrounded by his riches. A skeleton, Death, plays him a lute.Label TextFrans Francken II Flemish (1581-1642) Death and the Miser Oil on panel Gift of Mr. and Mrs. Eugene L. Garbaty 57.42.12 Frans Francken II was one of the most distinguished members of a large and prominent family of 17th-century Antwerp painters. His oeuvre ranged from large-scale historical and mythological paintings to modest genre pieces like Death and the Miser. In the painting Death confronts a man who has fallen prey to the sin of greed, having devoted his life solely to the pursuit of material riches. As a result, he has neglected his spiritual duties and, surprised by Death, will be consigned to hell for his sin. Francken shows Death as a troubadour leading the Miser in song. Death's open purse suggests that, in payment for the concert, the man will have to forfeit his life and, with it, all of his earthly gain.
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