" A Vanitas Still Life, 1645 " by Pieter Claesz

Echoing the Dutch tradition of a still life of vanitas, a lament about the transience of all things, this bold work makes its statement with a skull, a book, an overturned wine glass and an extinguished candle. In soft, almost monotone hues, Claesz's 17th century work speaks to a time when Europe was so harrowed by wars and plagues that death loomed large and its alternative, life, was widely celebrated. The authentic stretched canvas replica painting captures the original work's texture, depth of color, and even its subtle brushstrokes, which are applied by hand. The replica 3.25" wide, European style frame is cast in quality designer resin and highlighted with a beaded inner border and an antiqued ebony finish. Proudly printed and framed in the USA using imported molding.