What are vanitas paintings?
A vanitas is a type of still life painting that reminds the viewer about the fleeting nature of life through the use of symbolic objects. It illustrates the futility of earthly pleasures, the transient nature of life, and death's certainty.
Vanitas - Still Life with Books and Manuscripts and a Skull by Evert Collier
What is the meaning of vanitas paintings?
The term 'vanitas' is inspired by the Bible verse "Vanity of vanities, saith the Preacher, vanity of vanities; all is vanity." (Ecclesiastes 1:2) which emphasises the traditional Christian view that the pursuit of earthly pleasures and possessions is futile when compared to eternal salvation. Vanitas artwork encourages the audience to reflect on the direction of their lives and repent.
Vanitas still life with skull, books and fruit by Harmen Steenwijck
Understanding the symbolism in vanitas paintings
Common motifs in vanitas paintings include a skull to signify the inevitability of death. Clocks, hourglasses and flowers emphasise the transience of life. In contrast, pipes, playing cards, gold, and jewellery reference worldly wealth, power, and pleasure. Notable vanitas painters include Pieter Claesz (1597– 1660), Harmen Steenwijck (1612 – after 1656) and Evert Collier (1642 – 1708)
Vanitas still-life with 'Boy with Thorn' ('spinario') by Pieter Claesz
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