Avarice Jacob de Backer (1555-1591)

The composition presents a scene steeped in allegorical meaning, centered around a man engrossed in counting gold coins spread across a lavishly decorated table. He is seated on a cushioned bench, his posture suggesting both preoccupation and a certain defensiveness; he leans slightly away from the figure standing beside him. This woman, presumably his wife or consort, holds an infant, her gaze directed towards the man with an expression that blends concern and perhaps reproach. She offers him a ring, seemingly attempting to redirect his attention from material wealth.
Dominating the upper left quadrant of the canvas is a skeletal figure, winged like an angel of death, looming over the scene. The skeleton holds a scythe, a traditional symbol of mortality, poised as if ready to strike. This presence immediately establishes the painting’s thematic focus: the fleeting nature of earthly possessions and the inevitability of death.
In the background, two distinct narratives unfold. To the left, a triumphal procession moves along a road, suggesting worldly success and power. However, this scene is rendered in muted tones and appears somewhat distant, implying its ultimate insignificance compared to the central drama. On the right side, a crowd gathers around what seems to be a public execution or punishment, further reinforcing the consequences of prioritizing material gain over spiritual well-being.
The table itself is laden with symbols of wealth: gold coins, bars of gold, and a chalice. Two plump fowl perch on the edge of the table, representing abundance but also hinting at gluttony and excess. The man’s attire – a richly embroidered coat and buckled shoes – underscores his status and attachment to worldly comforts.
The color palette is rich and warm, with golds and reds dominating the foreground, drawing attention to the central figures and their obsession with wealth. However, the background utilizes cooler tones, creating a visual contrast that emphasizes the transience of earthly glory. The lighting is dramatic, highlighting key elements such as the gold coins and the skeletal figure, further amplifying the painting’s moral message: that avarice leads only to death and ultimately proves futile in the face of mortality.