A Fine Ivory Vanitas Rosary Bead in the form of a skull
A Fine Ivory Vanitas Rosary Bead in the form of a skull
German
17th Century
Size : 5 cm high x 4 cm deep x 3 cm wide
2 ins high x 1½ ins deep x 1¼ ins wide
German
17th Century
Size : 5 cm high x 4 cm deep x 3 cm wide
2 ins high x 1½ ins deep x 1¼ ins wide
There is an ancient Roman saying 'Mors certa, horta incerta' : Death is certain, the hour uncertain.
The skull bead on the rosary was used as an admonitory symbol and an object of devotional meditation.
During prayer it was a symbol of Christian remorse and penitence, a reminder to pray for salvation, and a warning that man is not divine and cannot escape his irrevocable fate, that all earthly life is transient.
'Memento Mori'.
The skull bead on the rosary was used as an admonitory symbol and an object of devotional meditation.
During prayer it was a symbol of Christian remorse and penitence, a reminder to pray for salvation, and a warning that man is not divine and cannot escape his irrevocable fate, that all earthly life is transient.
'Memento Mori'.
A Fine Ivory Vanitas Rosary Bead in the form of a skull
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