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Frontispiece with skeleton of death seated with scythe
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Frontispiece with skeleton of death seated with scythe
Frontispiece with skeleton of death seated with scythe and globe. Vignettes of death attacking a baby, an invalid, a glutton and a drunkard. Handcoloured copperplate engraving by Robert Cruikshank from The British Dance of Death, Hodgson, London, 1823
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Media ID 23382340
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This frontispiece, titled "The British Dance of Death," is an intricately detailed hand-colored copperplate engraving by the renowned artist Robert Cruikshank. Created in 1823 by Hodgson of London, this image personifies Death as a skeleton, seated with a menacing scythe in hand and an arrow and dart poised, ready to strike. The ominous figure of Death is surrounded by vignettes depicting the grim reaper claiming the lives of various individuals. In one scene, Death attacks an innocent baby, snatching it away from its mother's arms. Another vignette shows a frail, sickly invalid, with Death's arrow piercing through his heart. A glutton, overindulging in a lavish feast, is shown being attacked by Death with a dart, symbolizing the consequences of excessive indulgence. A drunkard, oblivious to his surroundings, is attacked by Death with a scythe, highlighting the destructive effects of alcohol. The background of the image features a well-appointed parlor, complete with a fireplace and mantelpiece, a woman sewing, a cat lounging by the hearth, and an industrious wife attending to her household chores. This contrast between the peaceful domestic scene and the impending presence of Death serves to emphasize the fragility of life and the inevitability of death. This powerful and evocative image is a testament to the artistic skill and vision of Robert Cruikshank and the Regency era's fascination with the Dance of Death theme. The intricate hand-coloring adds depth and richness to the image, making it a captivating work of art that continues to intrigue and inspire viewers to this day.
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