An Italian grand tour marble vanitas bust, 19th century, of a shrouded skeleton, 56cm high The notion of the transience of life has been prevalent throughout the history of art, and particularly in the Christian tradition since the Middle Ages. The word Vanitas in Latin translates as 'emptiness' or 'futility' and is often mentioned in relation to the idea of Memento Mori. Paintings, works of art and sculpture, such as the present example, depicting skeletons, clocks and other metaphors for the passage of time, were intended to serve as a reminder that one's life is fleeting, which, in turn, would prompt the viewer to live by the ethics set out in the Bible, and remember the fierce judgement that they would face upon their eventual, yet certain death. Condition report: Some chips to edges and back. Scratches and dirt. General wear throughout. In our opinion it is most likely mid-late 19th century. It doesn't appear to have been restored or filled, however the surface does have a slightly odd finish. As far as we can see there is no evidence of metal strengthening. Please see additional photos.