Vrouw met lege beurs 1625 - 1675

This is an engraving of a woman with an empty purse made by an anonymous artist. The purse, hanging open and empty, becomes a potent symbol of destitution and perhaps, a broader commentary on the uncertainties of life. Consider how the motif of the empty purse echoes through time. In ancient Roman comedies, the empty purse was a comedic prop, symbolizing foolishness or misfortune. Yet, here, the engraving transforms it into something more profound. It speaks to the human condition, to the anxiety and sorrow that accompany financial instability. The woman's weathered face and weary eyes add layers of emotional depth, engaging viewers on a deeply subconscious level. The image reminds us that the anxieties surrounding money and security are not new, but part of our collective memory. The empty purse, therefore, is more than just an object; it becomes a mirror reflecting our shared vulnerabilities across centuries.