72 Jacob Cats (1577–1660) – Fit Spolians Spolium (The Spoiler Is Spoiled), Emblem XII – Engraving (1618)
This engraving, titled "FIT. SPOLIANS SPOLIUM." (The Spoiler Is Spoiled), is Emblem XII from Jacob Cats's influential emblem books, such as "Sinne- en Minnebeelden" (Emblems of Morality and Love), first published in 1618. The circular image depicts a contraption, possibly a trap or a hydraulic mechanism in water, set within a landscape featuring distant buildings. The Latin motto, "The spoiler is spoiled," conveys a moral lesson about consequences and justice, suggesting that those who seek to harm or plunder others will ultimately suffer a similar fate. This emblem, like others in Cats's works, combines a visual allegory with a didactic message.
Jacob Cats (1577–1660) was a renowned Dutch poet, jurist, and politician, often referred to as "Father Cats" due to his immense popularity and moralistic writings. He served as Grand Pensionary of Holland and West Friesland. Cats is most famous for his emblem books, which offered practical and moral advice, particularly on marriage and family life, through a combination of allegorical images, Latin mottos, and Dutch verses. His works were widely read and beloved throughout the Netherlands and beyond, making him one of the most influential literary figures of the Dutch Golden Age.
Artist or Maker: Jacob Cats (Author)
Dimensions: Approximately 19 cm x 15 cm
Medium: Engraving
Date: 1618
Condition Report:
This work is in good condition overall. There may be a few minor imperfections or fox or mottled marks to be expected with age. Please review the images carefully for condition details, and feel free to contact us with any questions or for a comprehensive condition report.
| Estimate | 200 - 300 SEK |
| Buyers Premium (inc. VAT) | 24.4% |
| Hammer Fee (inc. VAT) | 6 SEK |
Dahlströms Rare Prints
Harju maakond, Tallinn
Lasnamäe linnaosa, Ruunaoja tn 3, 11415
Estland
+46 70 359 75 85
info@dahlstromsfineart.se
© Software Copyright 2025 Skeleton. All rights reserved.