Home > North America > United States of America > New York > New York > Sights > Metropolitan Museum of Art
Venerable Idleness, Queen of Cockaigne; a fat woman seated on a movable toilet chair
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Heritage Images
Venerable Idleness, Queen of Cockaigne; a fat woman seated on a movable toilet chair
Venerable Idleness, Queen of Cockaigne; a fat woman seated on a movable toilet chair being waited on and fed by seven women, 1565
Heritage Images features heritage image collections
Media ID 20289176
© Heritage Art/Heritage Images
Banquet Chamber Pot Defecating Defecation Eating Excess Funny Glutton Gluttony Greed Greedy Lavatory Lazy Niccolo Nicolo Potty Privy Servant Servants Shit Shitting Smell Smelly Toilet Wheelchair Cockaigne Cockayne Metaphor Nelli Nicolò Nelli
FEATURES IN THESE COLLECTIONS
> Animals
> Mammals
> Nesomyidae
> Fat Mouse
> Humour
> Related Images
> North America
> United States of America
> New York
> New York
> Sights
> Metropolitan Museum of Art
EDITORS COMMENTS
The 16th-century engraving titled "Venerable Idleness, Queen of Cockaigne" by Nicolo Nelli is a satirical portrayal of excess and gluttony. In this image, we see a humorous depiction of a fat woman seated on a movable toilet chair, being waited on and fed by seven women. The scene takes place in the land of plenty, known as Cockaigne, where indulgence knows no bounds. The concept behind this artwork is to mock the laziness and greed associated with excessive consumption. The queen's occupation seems to be solely focused on eating and defecating while her servants cater to her every need. Nelli's clever use of metaphor highlights the absurdity of such behavior. The chamber pot placed beneath the movable toilet chair symbolizes both the physical act of defecation as well as society's waste resulting from overindulgence. This engraving serves as a reminder that even those in positions of power can fall victim to their own vices. It also reflects societal criticism towards monarchs who prioritize personal pleasure over their responsibilities. Displayed at The Metropolitan Museum of Art, this heritage artwork showcases Nelli's skillful satire through intricate details and subtle humor. While it may elicit laughter from viewers due to its comical nature, it also prompts reflection on our own relationship with excess and gluttony in today's world.
MADE IN AUSTRALIA
Safe Shipping with 30 Day Money Back Guarantee
FREE PERSONALISATION*
We are proud to offer a range of customisation features including Personalised Captions, Color Filters and Picture Zoom Tools
SECURE PAYMENTS
We happily accept a wide range of payment options so you can pay for the things you need in the way that is most convenient for you
* Options may vary by product and licensing agreement. Zoomed Pictures can be adjusted in the Cart.
