English: Stained glass

Roundel showing a merchant
1475-1500;
Netherlands
Clear glass, with paint and silver stain

A merchant is at work in his warehouse surrounded by the tools of his trade. Standing on a woolsack, he weighs goods on a large balance using a set of standardised avoirdupois weights. The large scales are falsely balanced with ropes of different lengths, possibly a typical commentary on the theme of working for profit.

The subject of this roundel has recently become clear. It is thought to represent one of the Ages of Man. At the same time it symbolises one of the 12 months of the year.

There is another roundel with the same subject in Brussels. Although this is of lesser quality, it still retains its border inscription. Translated, this reads, 'At the age of 36 one has to work for profits, as we typify the month [of June]'.

Originally, therefore, the roundel in the V&A must have belonged to a series of 12, marking each of the months and illustrating the Ages of Man at six-yearly intervals from the ages of 6 to 72. Like the Brussels roundels, it must once have had a border inscription. The relevant Sign of the Zodiac was probably added to it.