David Teniers the Younger – The Covetous Man Part 2 National Gallery UK

The scene unfolds within a dimly lit interior, likely a modest dwelling. An elderly couple occupies the foreground; their attention is wholly consumed by a collection of coins spread across a table. The woman, seated and draped in dark clothing with a distinctive head covering, meticulously examines the currency, her expression one of intense scrutiny. Beside her, an older man, similarly attired and sporting a substantial beard, holds a small pouch, seemingly counting its contents.
The composition is dominated by the pervasive darkness that envelops the room, drawing focus to the illuminated table and the figures around it. A large earthenware pot overflows with coins, further emphasizing their importance within this domestic tableau. Above them, shelves are laden with various vessels and objects, suggesting a simple but functional existence. The starkness of the setting contributes to an atmosphere of quiet intensity.
The painting’s subtext revolves around avarice and the preoccupation with material wealth. The couples posture and facial expressions convey a deep-seated obsession with their coins – a focus that seems to eclipse any other potential joys or concerns. Their interaction appears devoid of warmth, suggesting that this shared pursuit has perhaps eroded their connection.
The arrangement of objects reinforces this theme. The scattered coins are not merely currency; they represent an accumulation, a measure of worth defined solely by monetary value. The presence of the pot overflowing with wealth hints at a potential for excess and possibly, a cautionary tale about the corrosive nature of greed. The artist has skillfully employed light and shadow to highlight the couple’s fixation, creating a compelling visual narrative about human desire and its consequences.