Notorious Examples of Wealth from Antiquity

Notorious Examples of Wealth from Antiquity

Philip Galle

1563

ink

From the collection of National Gallery of Art

About this work

This black-and-white print shows seven bearded men standing in a row, each holding different objects. Some wear crowns or armor, others carry staffs or golden items. The background is plain, but their clothes and accessories look heavy with detail—like coins, jewels, and fancy robes. At the bottom, there’s a line of Latin text. Notice how each man’s pose and props hint at wealth or power. The artist used lines to create shadows and texture, making the metal and fabric look real. Try looking up engraving to see how artists like this carved images into metal plates.

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