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Mercenary love, c. 1511 (woodcut)
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Mercenary love, c. 1511 (woodcut)
2653554 Mercenary love, c.1511 (woodcut) by Graf, Urs (The Elder) (1485-1528); Private Collection; (add.info.: Satirical attack against women receiving payment for sexual favours; an old man gropes a woman who passes money from his sack to a young man.)
Media ID 25500896
© Bridgeman Images
Backgammon Backgammon Board Banderole Bone Bones Breast Exchange Fondling Fruit Bowl Fruitbowl German Renaissance Gioco Goblet Immorality Lute Moral Parlor Game Pastime Pastimes Payment Playing Cards Sexual Skull Symbolism Symbolist Young Man Younghood Ball Games Bodies Old Man Parlour Game The Woman Young Woman
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EDITORS COMMENTS
This provocative woodcut print by Urs Graf, titled "Mercenary Love," captures a satirical attack on the exchange of sexual favors for money in 16th century Germany. The scene depicts an old man fondling a young woman while she passes money from his sack to a young man, symbolizing the immoral transaction taking place.
The intricate details in this artwork, from the playing cards and goblet on the table to the skull and bones scattered around, add layers of symbolism to the narrative. The juxtaposition of youth and age, innocence and corruption, creates a powerful commentary on human nature and societal norms.
Graf's use of symbolism extends beyond just the characters in the scene - even elements like fruit and botanical imagery play a role in conveying deeper meanings about desire, temptation, and morality. Through his artistry, he invites viewers to reflect on themes of love, lust, power dynamics, and moral ambiguity.
"Mercenary Love" is not just a snapshot of pastimes or games played in parlors; it is a thought-provoking piece that challenges us to consider our own values and beliefs about relationships and transactions between individuals. This woodcut print serves as a timeless reminder that love should never be bought or sold.
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