Otto van Veen, Cuncta Sequuntur Opes, Etching, Early 17th Century

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Engraving on paper from Amorum Emblemata / emblematic series after Ovid. Circular emblematic engraving illustrating the moralizing theme Cuncta sequuntur … Read more Engraving on paper from Amorum Emblemata / emblematic series after Ovid. Circular emblematic engraving illustrating the moralizing theme Cuncta sequuntur opes, accompanied by Latin and vernacular inscriptions (Sequitur cura pecuniam / Viel Geld, viel Sorgen). The central scene depicts a rocky coastal landscape with fishermen and sea creatures, framed within an elaborate allegorical border populated by putti, aquatic animals, and ornamental cartouches. This emblem derives from Otto van Veen’s celebrated humanist emblem books, inspired by classical sources—here explicitly referencing Ovid’s Tristia. Van Veen’s emblematic works, published in Antwerp in the early 1600s, were highly influential throughout Europe and exemplify the fusion of classical learning, moral philosophy, and refined graphic design characteristic of late Renaissance intellectual culture. Fine, detailed impression with strong contrasts. Mounted on period board; visible toning and scattered foxing consistent with age. An evocative and sought-after example of early emblem literature and moral allegory. See less