Italian school (XX) - Memento mori






Specialised in 17th century Old Master paintings and drawings with auction house experience.
| €75 | ||
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| €55 | ||
| €50 |
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Memento mori, an unsigned oil painting by Scuola italiana (XX), 53.5 cm high by 42.5 cm wide, Italy, original edition, sold by Galleria and with a frame, in good condition.
Description from the seller
An interesting work by an Italian painter of the 20th century, painted in oil on canvas mounted on a wooden panel, in good condition.
The painting measures 39 cm by 30.5 cm.
The frame is not original to the period.
A retro style: a monogram and the date 1920.
Memento mori is a Latin phrase meaning 'remember that you must die.' It represents a philosophical invitation to reflect on the transience of life and the inevitability of death, encouraging you to live with awareness, humility, and to value the present moment, without being overwhelmed by ego or power.
Here are some key details about the concept of memento mori:
Origin and meaning: The phrase has roots in classical antiquity and Christianity. According to Tertullian, it was used by slaves to remind victorious Roman generals of their mortal nature, avoiding excessive pride.
Deep meaning: It is not intended as a grim thought or a threat, but as a form of wisdom to give the events of life their proper weight. It is often accompanied by memento vivere ('remember to live').
Art and symbolism: The theme recurs in art (as in vanitas or danse macabre) through symbols such as skulls, hourglasses, or wilted flowers, which represent impermanence.
Provenance of the Italian antique market
Fast shipping with secure packaging
Seller's Story
An interesting work by an Italian painter of the 20th century, painted in oil on canvas mounted on a wooden panel, in good condition.
The painting measures 39 cm by 30.5 cm.
The frame is not original to the period.
A retro style: a monogram and the date 1920.
Memento mori is a Latin phrase meaning 'remember that you must die.' It represents a philosophical invitation to reflect on the transience of life and the inevitability of death, encouraging you to live with awareness, humility, and to value the present moment, without being overwhelmed by ego or power.
Here are some key details about the concept of memento mori:
Origin and meaning: The phrase has roots in classical antiquity and Christianity. According to Tertullian, it was used by slaves to remind victorious Roman generals of their mortal nature, avoiding excessive pride.
Deep meaning: It is not intended as a grim thought or a threat, but as a form of wisdom to give the events of life their proper weight. It is often accompanied by memento vivere ('remember to live').
Art and symbolism: The theme recurs in art (as in vanitas or danse macabre) through symbols such as skulls, hourglasses, or wilted flowers, which represent impermanence.
Provenance of the Italian antique market
Fast shipping with secure packaging
