Memento mori!
unknown
Basic information
- ID
- Ж-1204
- Author
- unknown
- Name
- Memento mori!
- Technique
- oil painting
- Material
- canvas oil
- Dimensions (height x width, cm)
- 58 x 46.5
Additionally
- Type
- painting
- Genre
- still life
- Plot
- Allegory of the vanity of human life
- Provenance
- Collection of Wiktor Baworowski
- Exposition
- Potocki Palace
Information about author
Object description
The Gallery's collection includes an allegorical work titled "Memento mori!" by an unknown author. The painting was executed in the Dutch style by a German seventeenth-century artist. In its independent interpretation, the vanitas motif appeared as early as the fifteenth century. The expression "Memento mori" refers to a passage from the Old Testament that contrasts the fleeting nature of earthly life with the eternal nature of faith: "Everything is meaningless. What do people gain from all their labours at which they toil under the sun?". The main attribute of vanitas, the skull, is one of the oldest symbols of death, representing the visible outcome of the transience of human flesh. It also serves as a reminder of Adam's mortal sin. In contrast, is the belief in resurrection, salvation of the soul and its immortality. Above the skull, a white lily is depicted, embodying the love of Christ. By portraying flowers in religious scenes, artists showcased the eternal beauty of God's wisdom and generosity, thus reminding viewers of the impermanence of earthly life. Alongside, a thistle is depicted, symbolising the Passion of Jesus. The lizard, in this context, is a symbol of life's renewal. The snail alludes to the tomb, resurrection, and eternal life, while the butterfly is a metaphor for the salvation of human souls redeemed by Christ's sacrifice. The image of the frog represents water. Lizards and snakes were also symbols of deceit, and the bee alluded to hard work and hope. It is a very delicate creature that also reflects the vulnerability of human life. Memento mori is a call not to forget that the Last Judgement is coming, so living according to God's laws is crucial.
Legal regulation
Borys Voznytskyi Lviv National Art Gallery
