Avarice, Jacob Matham (attributed to), after Hendrick Goltzius, 1585 - 1589
engraving, h 216mm × w 144mm More details
Avaritia, or Greed, was widely perceived as the worst of the Seven Deadly Sins, since the desire for money was the root of all evil. This personification of Avarice (with her attribute, the toad) seems not to have any idea what she needs money for. Wealth has become a burden – a weight to be carried in bags strapped to her chest.
