69 Jacob Cats (1577–1660) – Emblem: "It Knows No Bounds" (Nescit Habere Modum) – Engraving (Circa 1618–1658)
This print is an allegorical emblem from the moralistic works of Jacob Cats, bearing the Latin motto NESCIT HABERE MODUM (It Knows No Bounds or Measure). The circular pictorial section depicts a powerful allegory of destructive greed or insatiable ambition: the figure of a skeleton (Death) is shown riding on the back of a large, crocodile-like creature. This central image is a visual metaphor for the relentless, uncontrolled nature of avarice, which grows continuously until death, represented by the crocodile's reputed characteristic of growing as long as it lives. The text below, divided into MORALE and SACRVM, provides philosophical and sacred interpretations of this cautionary moral lesson.
Jacob Cats was a highly celebrated Dutch poet, humorist, jurist, and statesman of the Dutch Golden Age, often affectionately known as "Father Cats." He is most famous for his immensely popular emblem books, such as Silenus Alcibiadis, sive Proteus (1618) and Sinne- en Minne-beelden (1627), which presented moral and religious teachings through simple verses and evocative, often highly imaginative, allegorical illustrations. His work was published in numerous languages (Dutch, Latin, French, English) and was a staple in many Dutch households for centuries.
Artist or Maker: Jacob Cats
Dimensions: Approximately 26 × 19 cm
Medium: Engraving with letterpress text on laid paper
Date: Circa 1618–1658
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 | 400 - 600 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
info@dahlstromsrareprints.com
© Software Copyright 2025 Skeleton. All rights reserved.