Pillow : Death and the Maiden
Home Decor from Mary Evans Picture Library
Death and the Maiden
A housewife encounters a grinning skeleton, and shrinks from his arrow, clutching her fan
Mary Evans Picture Library makes available wonderful images created for people to enjoy over the centuries
Media ID 624958
© Mary Evans Picture Library 2015 - https://copyrighthub.org/s0/hub1/creation/maryevans/MaryEvansPictureID/10067686
1690 Allegories Arrow Clutching Encounters Grinning House Wife Maiden Skeleton Shrinks
18"x18" (46x46cm) Pillow
18"x18" (46x46cm) Faux Suede Pillow with a plush soft feel. Your choice of image fills the front, with a stone colored faux suede back. Flat sewn concealed white zip.
Accessorise your space with decorative, soft pillows
Estimated Product Size is 45.7cm x 45.7cm (18" x 18")
These are individually made so all sizes are approximate
Artwork printed orientated as per the preview above, with landscape (horizontal) or portrait (vertical) orientation to match the source image.
EDITORS COMMENTS
Death and the Maiden - A Housewife's Unexpected Encounter with Mortality (circa 1690) This hauntingly beautiful image, titled "Death and the Maiden," depicts a housewife in the prime of her life, clad in elegant attire and holding a fan, as she comes face to face with an unwelcome visitor. The skeleton, grinning mischievously, looms over her, his arrow poised to strike. The allegorical scene is a poignant reminder of the inescapable reality of death, which awaits us all. The maiden's terrified expression and her desperate attempt to shield herself with her fan underscore the human fear and denial of mortality. The origins of this image can be traced back to the 17th century, a time when such allegorical scenes were popular in European art. The skeleton, often depicted as a grinning, bony figure, symbolized death, while the maiden represented life and youth. The arrow was a common motif used to represent the inevitability of death. Despite its macabre subject matter, this image is a testament to the human condition and the universal desire to deny the reality of death. It is a reminder that, no matter how young and vibrant we may feel, death is an inevitable part of life. The intricately detailed print, with its rich colors and bold lines, is a stunning example of the artistic skill and creativity of the time. It invites us to reflect on the fleeting nature of life and the importance of cherishing each moment. This image, from the extensive collection of Mary Evans Picture Library, is a valuable historical artifact that offers a glimpse into the artistic and cultural sensibilities of the past. It is a reminder of the enduring power of art to provoke thought, inspire reflection, and capture the human experience.
MADE IN THE USA
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
FREE COLORIZATION SERVICE
You can choose advanced AI Colorization for this picture at no extra charge!
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.