Memento Mori or Vanitas - antler - 17th century
A rare Memento Mori or Vanitas sculpture carved out of antler. The sculpture depicts a so-called "Transi", a full-size skeleton in the stage of active decay of the corps, where all of the body's soft tissues are decomposed and the hair, bones and teeth remain. The skeleton is covered in worms and beetles, even in the abdominal cavity. This macabre carving was destined to stimulate meditation about death and to remind its owner constantly of his/her mortality. Southern Germany. Late 17th / early 18th century. Dimensions: L 15. 6cm ; W (shoulders) 3. 5cm In very good condition, with genuine traces of use, age and wear and a fine patina created by centuries of touching or holding by human hands. *** SAFE AND SECURE SHIPPING BY UPS ***
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A rare Memento Mori or Vanitas sculpture carved out of antler. The sculpture depicts a so-called "Transi", a full-size skeleton in the stage of active decay of the corps, where all of the body's soft tissues are decomposed and the hair, bones and teeth remain. The skeleton is covered in worms and beetles, even in the abdominal cavity. This macabre carving was destined to stimulate meditation about death and to remind its owner constantly of his/her mortality. Southern Germany. Late 17th / early 18th century. Dimensions: L 15. 6cm ; W (shoulders) 3. 5cm In very good condition, with genuine traces of use, age and wear and a fine patina created by centuries of touching or holding by human hands. *** SAFE AND SECURE SHIPPING BY UPS ***
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