"Allegorisk Gallerie" Nr. 1 1799

"Allegorisk Gallerie" Nr. 1, an engraving by Georg Fahrenholtz, presents a satirical commentary on societal values, likely made during the late 18th or early 19th century, given the artist's lifespan. The print depicts a woman, adorned with a feathered headpiece and elaborate dress, offering a bag labeled "10,000 loss" to a devilish figure holding a net. This scene, set against a landscape with a peculiar, face-like structure in the background, evokes a critique of human folly and moral corruption. The figures are rendered in a way that emphasizes their roles as allegorical characters rather than realistic individuals. Through its allegorical presentation, the artwork invites viewers to reflect on the deceptive allure of financial gain and the potential for exploitation. It also underscores how societal structures might prioritize wealth over ethical considerations. The emotional tension is palpable, leaving you to ponder the artist’s message about the delicate balance between temptation and virtue.