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Death and life contrasted, or, An Essay on Man (coloured engraving)
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Death and life contrasted, or, An Essay on Man (coloured engraving)
602572 Death and life contrasted, or, An Essay on Man (coloured engraving) by Dighton, Robert (1752-1814); Private Collection; (add.info.: Death and life contrasted, or, An Essay on Man; published 25 March 1784; based on an original by Robert Dighton); Look and Learn / Peter Jackson Collection
Media ID 22414792
© Look and Learn / Peter Jackson Collection / Bridgeman Images
Beneath Bone Bones Contrasted Essay Gravestones Momento Mori Skin Skull Spade Wages Bodies Robert Dighton
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EDITORS COMMENTS
In this coloured engraving titled "Death and Life Contrasted, or An Essay on Man" artist Robert Dighton invites viewers to contemplate the profound contrast between mortality and vitality. The image, published on 25 March 1784, presents a thought-provoking composition that delves into the depths of human existence. At first glance, we are confronted with the stark juxtaposition of life and death. A man stands amidst gravestones, his skin seemingly translucent as if symbolizing our ephemeral nature. His gaze is fixed upon a skull held in his hand—a powerful reminder of our mortality. Behind him looms a skeleton wielding a spade, representing Death itself. Yet within this somber scene lies an intricate narrative waiting to be unraveled. The essay mentioned in the title suggests that there is more than meets the eye; it hints at deeper philosophical musings about sin and redemption, wages earned for one's actions in life. Dighton's masterful use of colour adds depth to the print—subtle hues highlighting every bone meticulously etched onto paper. This attention to detail serves as both momento mori—an artistic reminder of death—and an exploration of what lies beneath our mortal shells. As we observe this hauntingly beautiful artwork from Peter Jackson Collection's private archives, we are reminded that life is fleeting but filled with meaning. It compels us to reflect upon our own existence and consider how we choose to live each precious moment before joining those who have gone before us—the bodies now
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