The Adoration of the Skulls
1733 National Gallery of Art, Washington D.C.
About this artwork
This painting depicts a scene of religious devotion within an architectural setting featuring monks or religious figures surrounding human skulls. It is a work by the French painter Michel-François Dandré-Bardon held in the National Gallery of Art collection.
Did you know?
Dandré-Bardon was a prominent figure in the French art scene of the 18th century, serving as a professor at the Royal Academy. This specific work reflects the 'memento mori' tradition, a popular artistic theme in the Baroque and Rococo periods that served as a stark reminder of human mortality and the fleeting nature of earthly life.
Know the artwork. Knowing its title and artist turns a beautiful image into a story worth sharing — with a museum label:
The Adoration of the Skulls
Michel-François Dandré-Bardon, 1733
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