Death carrying an infant, from "The five deaths" (Les cinq Morts) 1643 - 1653

This etching by Stefano della Bella, created between 1643 and 1653, is one of a series called "The Five Deaths." This particular piece, "Death carrying an infant," depicts a skeletal figure, Death, carrying a small child away from a bustling town. This print highlights the universality of death and the vulnerability of innocence in the face of mortality. The contrast between the skeletal Death and the vulnerable child emphasizes the grim reality of death, a theme popularized by the Baroque movement. The intricate detail of the town in the background gives the viewer a glimpse of the everyday world, further emphasizing the contrast with the grim reaper, which is a staple of Western art.