Home > North America > United States of America > New York > New York > Sights > Metropolitan Museum of Art
Death and the Miser, December 20, 1801. December 20, 1801. Creator: Thomas Rowlandson
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Heritage Images
Death and the Miser, December 20, 1801. December 20, 1801. Creator: Thomas Rowlandson
Death and the Miser, December 20, 1801
Heritage Images features heritage image collections
Media ID 19986928
© Heritage Art/Heritage Images
Afraid Alarm Cash Frighten Frightened Frightening Miser Money Money Bag Padlock Rowlandson Rowlandson Thomas Scared Skeleton Strong Box Strongbox Thomas Rowlandson Treasure Chest Allegorical Figure Hand Tinted Padlocks
FEATURES IN THESE COLLECTIONS
> Arts
> Artists
> H
> Thomas Hand
> Arts
> Artists
> R
> Thomas Rowlandson
> Europe
> United Kingdom
> England
> London
> Sights
> British Museum
> North America
> United States of America
> New York
> New York
> Sights
> Metropolitan Museum of Art
> Popular Themes
> Money
Death and the Miser - A Haunting Allegory of Wealth and Mortality
EDITORS COMMENTS
. In this etching by Thomas Rowlandson, created in December 1801, we are confronted with a powerful allegorical figure that strikes fear into the hearts of all who behold it. The scene depicts Death himself, personified as a menacing skeleton, standing before a terrified miser. The miser is shown clutching his money bag tightly, symbolizing his obsession with wealth and material possessions. Beside him lies a sturdy strongbox padlocked shut, further emphasizing his desperate need to hoard every penny. However, even these symbols of security cannot protect him from the inevitable grasp of Death. Rowlandson's masterful use of color adds depth and intensity to the image. The hand-tinted hues bring life to both the figures and their surroundings while enhancing the eerie atmosphere surrounding them. This thought-provoking artwork serves as a reminder that no amount of riches can shield us from our ultimate fate. It challenges viewers to reflect on their own priorities in life – whether they are driven solely by monetary gain or if they value more meaningful aspects such as love, compassion, and human connection. Displayed at The Metropolitan Museum of Art as part of its heritage collection, this print continues to captivate audiences centuries later with its timeless message about mortality and the transient nature of wealth.
MADE IN THE USA
Safe Shipping with 30 Day Money Back Guarantee
FREE PERSONALISATION*
We are proud to offer a range of customisation features including Personalised Captions, Color Filters and Picture Zoom Tools
SECURE PAYMENTS
We happily accept a wide range of payment options so you can pay for the things you need in the way that is most convenient for you
* Options may vary by product and licensing agreement. Zoomed Pictures can be adjusted in the Cart.
