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Two Skeletons of Death lead an Old Woman to her fate
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Two Skeletons of Death lead an Old Woman to her fate
Two Skeletons of Death lead an Old Woman to her fate as she prays on her rosary. One has a wreath on its skull and beats her, and the other plays a dulcimer. Handcoloured copperplate engraving by Wenceslaus Hollar from The Dance of Death by Hans Holbein, Coxhead, London, 1816
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Media ID 23194232
© Florilegius/Mary Evans
Dulcimer Hans Holbein Hollar Prayer Rosary Skeleton Skull Violence Wenceslaus Wreath
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Two Skeletons of Death Lead an Old Woman to Her Fate
EDITORS COMMENTS
is a hauntingly beautiful hand-colored copperplate engraving by the renowned artist Wenceslaus Hollar, created as part of the larger series "The Dance of Death" by Hans Holbein. The image depicts two skeletons, one bearing a wreath on its skull and wielding a menacing stick, while the other plays a dulcimer with a serene expression. The old woman in the foreground is shown on her knees, her face etched with fear and despair, as she clutches her rosary beads and offers a desperate prayer. The Dance of Death was a popular series of images during the Renaissance, reminding viewers of the inevitability of death and the transience of life. In this image, the skeletons represent the Grim Reapers, leading the old woman to her final destination. The contrast between the violent skeleton and the musical one highlights the unpredictability and capriciousness of death. The intricate details of the engraving are striking, with the delicate folds of the old woman's dress and the intricate patterns on the skeletons' robes. The use of hand-coloring adds an additional layer of depth and emotion to the image, making it a captivating work of art that continues to resonate with viewers today. The image is a poignant reminder of the fragility of life and the inevitability of death, as well as the importance of faith and prayer in the face of the unknown. The haunting melody of the dulcimer adds to the sense of foreboding, while the old woman's prayer offers a glimmer of hope in the face of despair. Overall, "Two Skeletons of Death Lead an Old Woman to Her Fate" is a powerful and evocative work of art that continues to captivate and inspire viewers over 400 years after it was created.
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