The Nobleman
c. 1526
In this striking woodcut from Hans Holbein the Younger's famous 'Dance of Death' series, a wealthy nobleman finds his sword fight interrupted by a much tougher opponent: Death itself. The grinning skeleton has already snagged the nobleman's leg and arm, rendering his fancy slashed sleeves and heavy purse completely useless against the inevitable. An hourglass sits quietly on a nearby table, ticking away the final moments of the rich man's life. Created around 1526, this series was a massive bestseller in its day, serving as a grim but equalizing reminder that no amount of money or status can buy you more time.
- Technique
- Woodcut
- Material
- Ink on paper
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