Prent 24 uit serie "Livre des plus belles devises..." 1697

This is Plate 24 from the series "Livre des plus belles devises...", an engraving made by Anthonie de Winter in the late 17th century. During this period, the Dutch Republic was a major center for trade, arts, and sciences, but also experienced social stratification and religious tensions. De Winter's print presents four emblem designs, each a symbolic representation of a motto or concept. These emblems, common during the Baroque era, were intended to convey moral or philosophical ideas through a combination of images and text. Consider how the imagery of skulls, skeletons, and hourglasses speak to the preoccupation with mortality. Each emblem also presents an allegory of life, death, and time, all set within elaborate frames adorned with classical motifs. How might these symbols function as a memento mori, reminding viewers of the transience of human existence and the importance of living a virtuous life? The emotional resonance of these symbols invites reflection on our own mortality.