Wie sal't ontgaen 1614

This 1614 engraving by Gilles van Couwenberch, titled *Wie sal't ontgaen,* depicts a cherubic figure resting its arm upon a skull, a rose, and a skull. The cherub stares directly at the viewer, its innocent visage juxtaposed with the stark reminder of mortality, symbolized by the skull and hourglass. This allegorical print serves as a memento mori, or a reminder of death, encouraging viewers to contemplate their own mortality and seek spiritual redemption. The engraving's intricate details and dramatic composition highlight the contrast between life and death, a common theme in van Couwenberch's work.