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Skeleton of Death pulling the hair of a Merchant
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Skeleton of Death pulling the hair of a Merchant
Skeleton of Death pulling the hair of a Merchant as he counts his money and examines his goods on the dock. Handcoloured copperplate engraving by Wenceslaus Hollar from The Dance of Death by Hans Holbein, Coxhead, London, 1816
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Media ID 23194208
© Florilegius/Mary Evans
Coins Dock Goods Hans Holbein Hollar Hourglass Merchant Money Pulling Skeleton Wenceslaus
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This haunting image, titled "Skeleton of Death pulling the hair of a Merchant," is a hand-coloured copperplate engraving by the renowned artist Wenceslaus Hollar, taken from The Dance of Death series by Hans Holbein. The print depicts Death personified as a skeleton, reaching out with bony fingers to grasp the merchant's long, flowing hair, while he is intently focused on counting his money and examining his goods on the bustling dockside. The merchant's back is turned to the ominous figure, oblivious to the imminent threat of his own demise. The dockside scene is alive with activity, with ships in the background and various other figures going about their business. However, the hourglass at the bottom left corner serves as a stark reminder of the fleeting nature of life and the inevitability of Death's arrival. The intricate detail and expressive use of colour in this engraving add to its emotional impact, highlighting the contrast between the merchant's worldly preoccupations and the inevitable specter of Death. Originally published in London by Coxhead in 1816, this print is a poignant reminder of the fragility of life and the inevitability of Death's grasp. The Dance of Death series, which originated in the 15th century, was a popular theme in art and literature, reminding viewers of the universality of mortality and the importance of living a virtuous life.
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