The House of Antiques has dated this Italian Memento Mori Painting to the 19th Century.
Live life to the fullest, for all life must one day end.
An extraordinary and haunting early 19th-century Italian Memento Mori painting, depicting a near life-size skeletal figure and created as a powerful reminder of the inevitability of death and the fleeting nature of life.
Over 200 years of age, the painting has developed a wonderfully evocative appearance. Time has softened and faded the painted surface, with areas of detail now lost through age. For us, this is very much part of its appeal.
Beneath the figure is a heavily faded Italian inscription. From what remains legible, it appears to read in part:
“VITA … MORTE GRADITA ONDE APPRENDI … BUONA VITA”
The missing and damaged lettering makes a complete transcription impossible, but the surviving words suggest a sentiment along the lines of “Life … a welcome death / from which you learn … a good life.” In the context of the skeletal figure, the inscription is almost certainly a traditional memento mori meditation: contemplate death, remember the brevity of life, and therefore live well.
The painting is housed within what we believe to be its original gilt pine frame, the aged gilding complementing the beautifully timeworn surface of the work.
Although undoubtedly rooted in religious and philosophical tradition, we acquired this piece as much for its artistic presence as for its historical significance. With its faded surface, imposing scale and unmistakably macabre character, it has become something far more atmospheric than a conventional religious artefact.
A remarkable survivor with over two centuries of age — haunting, imperfect and extraordinarily evocative.
Dimensions
Height: 154.94cm (61")
Width: 81.28cm (32")
Depth: 3 cm (1.2")
Details
Date: Early 19th Century
Origin: Italy
Maker: Unknown
Materials: Canvas and pine
Condition: Aged
Condition Report
The canvas has undergone a few historic repairs, with several areas showing evidence of previous tears (see photographs). The paint surface has faded, and in some sections there is significant paint loss, exposing the underlying canvas. The pine frame and stretcher remain firm and secure, with no evidence of woodworm.
Shipping & Handling
UK Buyers: Delivery is available through our trusted courier partners, including specialist services for valuable, oversized and fragile items.
International Buyers: Worldwide shipping is available. Please contact us prior to purchase for a bespoke shipping quotation. Given the age, size and delicate nature of this piece, we strongly recommend fully insured, tracked and professionally crated shipping.
Dispatch Time: Typically 3–7 working days, subject to destination and courier arrangements.
Our Guarantee
At The House of Antiques Ltd / The Purest Space Ltd, we are committed to transparency, quality and exceptional customer service.
Every item is carefully inspected, accurately described and extensively photographed. As our pieces are antique and vintage, individual signs of age and use form part of their history and character. We encourage prospective buyers to review all photographs carefully and contact us with any questions before purchasing.
Returns & Cancellations
Returns are accepted only where an item is found to differ materially from its description. Any such issue must be reported within 48 hours of delivery.
We are unable to accept returns or cancellations due to a change of mind. Unless otherwise agreed, all return shipping costs, including suitable insurance, remain the responsibility of the buyer.
Photographic Rights
All photographs and images remain the intellectual property of The House of Ant
The House of Antiques has dated this Italian Memento Mori Painting to the 19th Century.
You can view the stock and full dealer information on the The House of Antiques Profile Page
Early 19th Century Italian Memento Mori Ghostly Painting
