Plate Fourteen of Triumph of Death, Triumph of Divinity, Triumph of Poverty 1780

Curator: Christian von Mechel created this etching, titled "Plate Fourteen of Triumph of Death, Triumph of Divinity, Triumph of Poverty." Editor: It feels like a slightly sardonic parade, doesn't it? Lots of figures trudging along, looking rather glum, with Poverty leading the way. Curator: Indeed. The work appropriates triumphal imagery to critique societal values. The figures represent different aspects of poverty and their perceived virtues. It reflects Enlightenment-era debates on wealth, morality, and social order. Editor: I notice the banners. Are they meant to satirize the very idea of triumph? Poverty certainly doesn't look very triumphant here. More like resigned. Curator: The image is rich with layers of social commentary—a commentary on how we frame virtue and necessity. Editor: Maybe it makes you think about what we glorify, and what we overlook. Curator: Exactly. It's a potent critique, even centuries later.