Artwork

The Seven Vices: Avarice

The Seven Vices:  Avarice, by Hans Burgkmair the Elder, 1510
The Seven Vices:  Avarice, by Hans Burgkmair the Elder, 1510

The Seven Vices: Avarice is a print by the Renaissance artist Hans Burgkmair the Elder. It dates from 1510 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.

About this work

Overview

The Seven Vices: Avarice is a print by Hans Burgkmair, dated to around 1510, and is part of the collection at The Cleveland Museum of Art.

Subject & Meaning

The print depicts a woman in a long gown with a cloth wrapped around her head, holding a large fish. Her neutral expression and downward gaze contribute to a contemplative atmosphere, representing the vice of avarice.

Technique & Style

Burgkmair's use of chiaroscuro creates depth and volume, drawing attention to the woman and the fish. The detailed rendering of her clothing, including intricate folds and a decorative collar, showcases the artist's skill.

Artist & collection

This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: Cleveland Museum of Art open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.