Memento Mori Sculpture

German, 18th century
Marble
Height 6.5 cm, width 7 cm, depth 8 cm

The skull distinguishes itself through its simplicity: made of marble, it was originally part of a bigger monument, probably of a grave or an altar. It could also have been integrated in a crucifixion scene where a skull is often depicted to the cross’s bases as reference to the Golgatha, the skull mountain, on which Jesus Christ was crucified thus delivering mankind from death. The skull is a typical vanity or “memento mori” that reminds mankind of its inevitably approaching death and summons the Christian to have a decent way of life and to trust in God’s forgiveness for his resurrection.