Home > Europe > United Kingdom > England > London > Art > Dance
Skeleton of Death catching the Friar Provisor
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Mary Evans Picture Library
Skeleton of Death catching the Friar Provisor
Skeleton of Death catching the cloak collar of the Friar Provisor as he enters a convent with money-box and wallet. The convent wall is crumbling and smoke billows from inside. Handcoloured copperplate engraving by Wenceslaus Hollar from The Dance of Death by Hans Holbein, Coxhead, London, 1816
Mary Evans Picture Library makes available wonderful images created for people to enjoy over the centuries
Media ID 23194176
© Florilegius/Mary Evans
Cloak Convent Friar Hans Holbein Hollar Hourglass Skeleton Wallet Wenceslaus Money Box
FEATURES IN THESE COLLECTIONS
> Arts
> Artists
> H
> Wenceslaus Hollar
> Europe
> United Kingdom
> England
> London
> Art
> Dance
> Mary Evans Prints Online
> New Images August 2021
> Popular Themes
> Dance
> Popular Themes
> Money
EDITORS COMMENTS
This haunting image, titled "Skeleton of Death catching the Friar Provisor," is a hand-colored copperplate engraving by the renowned artist Wenceslaus Hollar, taken from The Dance of Death series by Hans Holbein. The engraving depicts the skeletal figure of Death, with its bony hand reaching out to grasp the cloak collar of a frightened Friar Provisor. The Friar, dressed in the brown robes of his order, is shown entering a crumbling convent wall, clutching both a money-box and a wallet in his hands. The hourglass in Death's other hand symbolizes the transience of life and the inevitability of Death's arrival. The interior of the convent is shrouded in smoke and fire, suggesting the corruption and decay that lies within. A dog, perhaps symbolizing loyalty or the passing of the Friar's earthly possessions to a new owner, is shown at the Friar's feet. The intricate details of the engraving, from the textured robes to the crumbling stonework, serve to heighten the sense of unease and impending doom. This image is a poignant reminder of the universality of Death and the fleeting nature of life. The Dance of Death series, which originated in the 15th century, was a popular theme in European art and literature, and served as a reminder of the inevitability of Death and the importance of living a virtuous life. This particular engraving, with its intricate details and powerful symbolism, continues to captivate and intrigue viewers to this day.
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
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.
