Ivory bust of General Wallenstein, Europe, after 1634
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Memento mori figures were used to remember the dead and illustrate the fragility of life. In this example, soldier and statesman General Wallenstein from Bohemia, the modern day Czech Republic, is surrounded by objects illustrating the transience of life. These include sand timers, skulls and books. Half of his face has been stripped away to reveal the skull. The stand is studded with a semi-precious jewel reputedly taken from his tomb. Albrecht Wenzel Eusebius von Wallenstein (1583-1634) was a general of the armies of Holy Roman Emperor Ferdinand II during the Thirty Years War (1618-1648). This was mainly a religious war between Protestants and Catholics in Europe. However, it was also about political supremacy. Wallenstein was assassinated in 1634 after being accused of high treason.
Object number:
A135809
Related Themes and Topics
Glossary:
Glossary: bust
Representations of only the head and shoulders of a human figure.
Glossary: memento mori
Symbols intended to remind the viewer of death. Memento mori are often objects such as skulls or hourglasses, but can also be written inscriptions.
Glossary: mourning
Trial term S&H