Original artwork description:

A very light and quick sketch of a skull in watercolors on matt paper.
"Memento mori" a Latin phrase meaning “remember you must die,” is a philosophical and artistic tradition that serves as a reflection on mortality, the fleeting nature of life, and the inevitability of death. Among its most enduring and iconic symbols is the skull—a stark reminder of the final destination that unites all human beings, regardless of status, wealth, or power.

In art and literature, the skull functions as a visual shorthand for death. Unlike other representations of mortality—such as a wilting flower or an hourglass—the skull is confrontational and unambiguous. It forces the viewer to reckon with their own impermanence. During the Renaissance and Baroque periods, it became a central motif in vanitas paintings, which juxtaposed symbols of worldly pleasures (like books, jewels, or instruments) with deathly imagery to underscore the futility of material pursuits.

Yet, the skull in memento mori art is not meant to inspire fear or despair. Rather, it serves as a moral compass, encouraging reflection, humility, and spiritual readiness. For monks and mystics, the contemplation of a skull was a daily practice—a meditation on the vanity of life and the wisdom that can come from remembering death.

Today, the skull continues to resonate in contemporary culture, appearing in fashion, tattoos, and design. While often aestheticized, it still carries the echo of its original message: life is short, and we are all mortal. The true power of the memento mori skull lies not in morbidity, but in its call to live meaningfully.

Size: 14"x 9.5"
Watercolors on paper
Painting is unframed
The colours may vary slightly due to differences in screen/monitor settings.
Virtual framed in situ images if any are only for illustrative purposes
A signed certificate of authenticity will be enclosed.
Artwork is copyrighted ©AshaSudhakerShenoy

Ships flat by India Post tracked service, delivery against signature in 10 to 21 days depending on the location.
Import duties/ VAT/Local taxes/carrier charges etc are payable by the buyers.

Materials used:

Artists watercolor paints, 160 gsm watercolor paper

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