The Madonna with the Clock c. 1490

"The Madonna with the Clock" (c. 1490), an engraving by Israhel van Meckenem, depicts the Virgin Mary holding the Christ Child. The scene is surrounded by an elaborate circular frame with inscription, and set within a circle of foliate ornament, reminiscent of Gothic designs. The timepiece on the left is a reminder of the passing of time and the approaching apocalypse, a popular theme in Northern Renaissance art. This small-scale engraving, measuring only 11.1 × 10.5 cm, was likely intended for private devotional use.