Death's Head

Perhaps the most famous example of an artist hiding intimations of mortality in their work is that of Hans Holbein the Younger's "The Ambassadors" (1533). The slanting death's head, painted in anamorphic perspective (clearly rendered when viewed at a certain angle) comments on the trappings of success the subjects have achieved. It'll end in tears, the skull says.

Less commented upon is the other hidden emblem, the crucifix in the top-left. This might be an escape route for the artist in case charged with inpropriety, or a comment on the veiling of religion by worldly concerns. If we view the picture as a murder scene the weapons are laid out on the table, the criminals stand before us in caped disguise, and the rich fabric curtain shields us from the truth.

Miss Marple would be right at home here.

 

site © 2007 Robin Parmar
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