Four Skulls and a Child ("Mors Omnia Aequat"), 1614
Lucas Kilian; Artist: After Barthel Behamexpand_more
Engravingexpand_more
Anonymous giftexpand_more 2018.96.25
Not on Viewexpand_more
Death is a timeless subject. Made in 1614, this "momemto mori" (reminder that you must die) is a copy of one made by another German artist, Barthel Beham, about 85 years earlier. The inscription, “Mors Omnia Aequa” (death equalizes all), is reflected in the stack of skulls, whose previous owners have become indistinguishable. The image of the dead infant accompanied by an hourglass also reminds us that our fate may come much sooner than we expect.
Details
- Title
- Four Skulls and a Child ("Mors Omnia Aequat")
- Artist Life
- 1502–1540
- Role
- Artist
- Accession Number
- 2018.96.25
- Provenance
- Franz Steiner, Villa Egger, Meraß [Leipzig and Wiesbaden']. C & J Goodfriend, New York; John E. Andrus III (Wayzata, Minn.); Julie Andrus (Minneapolis, Minn.)
- Catalogue Raisonne
- Hollstein 559
- Curator Approved
This record has been reviewed by our curatorial staff but may be incomplete. These records are frequently revised and enhanced. If you notice a mistake or have additional information about this object, please email collectionsdata@artsmia.org.
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