Italian school (XX) - Memento mori






Specialised in 17th century Old Master paintings and drawings with auction house experience.
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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.
On the back, a signature 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 living with awareness, humility, and valuing 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 in 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 gloomy thought or a threat, but as a form of wisdom to give proper weight to the events of life. It is often accompanied by memento vivere ("remember to live").
Art and symbolism: The theme recurs in art (as in vanitas or in the danse macabre) through symbols such as skulls, hourglasses, or withered flowers, which represent impermanence.
Origin: Italian antique market provenance
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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.
On the back, a signature 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 living with awareness, humility, and valuing 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 in 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 gloomy thought or a threat, but as a form of wisdom to give proper weight to the events of life. It is often accompanied by memento vivere ("remember to live").
Art and symbolism: The theme recurs in art (as in vanitas or in the danse macabre) through symbols such as skulls, hourglasses, or withered flowers, which represent impermanence.
Origin: Italian antique market provenance
Fast shipping with secure packing
