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Skeleton of Death with an Emperor on his throne
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Skeleton of Death with an Emperor on his throne
Skeleton of Death resting his arm on the Emperor on his throne as he sits in judgment on a case. Handcoloured copperplate engraving by Wenceslaus Hollar from The Dance of Death by Hans Holbein, Coxhead, London, 1816
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Media ID 23194144
© Florilegius/Mary Evans
Courtiers Hans Holbein Hollar Hourglass Judgment Skeleton Throne Wenceslaus
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EDITORS COMMENTS
This hauntingly beautiful hand-colored copperplate engraving, created by the masterful artist Wenceslaus Hollar in 1816, depicts the Skeleton of Death in a chilling scene of judgment. The Skeleton, a symbol of mortality and the inexorable passage of time, sits regally on an ornate throne, his bony hand resting on the shoulder of a hapless emperor. The emperor, dressed in rich robes and adorned with a crown and orb, appears shocked and fearful as he is brought before the Grim Reaper. Surrounding the throne are courtiers, their faces etched with fear and trepidation, as they bear witness to the inescapable fate that awaits them all. The engraving is derived from Hans Holbein's iconic series, "The Dance of Death," which originally appeared in the 15th century. This series of woodcuts depicted the Skeleton of Death leading various figures from all walks of life to their graves, underscoring the universality of death and the inevitability of its embrace. The addition of the imperial setting in this particular engraving serves to emphasize the notion that no one, not even the most powerful rulers, can escape the clutches of Death. The intricate details of the engraving, from the delicate folds of the emperor's robes to the expressive faces of the courtiers, are a testament to Hollar's exceptional skill as an artist. The use of hand-coloring further enhances the image's emotional impact, imbuing it with a sense of melancholy and solemnity that resonates with viewers even today.
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