Late 17th Century Sanguine and Ink Study of The Abbott, Danse Macabre, after Hans Holbein the Younger

Originates from: Northern Europe

Era: Late 17th Century

Dimensions: 14” H x 14” W (in frame), 9” x 9” (image)

A stunningly well executed late 17th century study of The Abbot, from Hans Holbein the Younger’s Danse Macabre, done in sanguine and ink on a nicely textured laid paper. Likely done in study of later Wenceslaus Hollar’s engraving after Holbein’s own.

A crowned and sceptred Death pulls the Abbot by his robe toward his passing, showing religious rank holds no immunity to death. Some added details in this study include the hourglass in the tree. 

An early collection mark sits in the bottom left corner of the image, collection unknown.

A very well executed study after one of the iconic images of 16th and 17th century memento mori art. From the contemporary collection of English dealer Ed Bailey.