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Skeleton of Death beating a drum for a newly married couple
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Skeleton of Death beating a drum for a newly married couple
Skeleton of Death beating a drum for a newly married couple. Handcoloured copperplate engraving by Wenceslaus Hollar from The Dance of Death by Hans Holbein, Coxhead, London, 1816
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Media ID 23194198
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Beat Drum Hans Happiness Holbein Hollar Hourglass Married Newly Newlyweds Skeleton Wenceslaus
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EDITORS COMMENTS
This hauntingly beautiful handcoloured copperplate engraving by Wenceslaus Hollar, titled "Skeleton of Death Beating a Drum for a Newly Married Couple," is an intriguing image that explores the paradoxical nature of life and death. The engraving is taken from "The Dance of Death" series by Hans Holbein, first published in 1538, and later reissued in London by Coxhead in 1816. At the center of the image, a skeleton, personifying Death, stands with a large hourglass in one hand and a drum in the other. The skeleton, dressed in a cloak and holding a scythe, beats the drum with an intense expression, as if summoning the newlyweds to join the dance of life and death. The couple, dressed in their wedding attire, looks surprised and frightened as they hesitantly step forward, holding hands. The image serves as a poignant reminder of the fleeting nature of life and the inevitability of death. The hourglass symbolizes the limited time that every person has, and the drumbeat represents the inexorable march of time. The newlyweds, who represent the epitome of happiness and joy, are confronted with the reality of death, which awaits them all. The intricate details of the engraving, the delicate handcolouring, and the skillful use of light and shadow create a visually stunning and thought-provoking image. The contrast between the joyful moment of the wedding and the ominous presence of Death adds depth and complexity to the image, making it a timeless masterpiece that continues to captivate and inspire viewers.
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