Loading

Denise Poncher before a Vision of Death (Main View (.156) / book image source)

Master of the Chronique scandaleuse

The J. Paul Getty Museum

The J. Paul Getty Museum
Los Angeles, United States

Denise Poncher is depicted kneeling with her prayer book before Death, a terrifying skeleton covered in rotting flesh and holding numerous sickles. The jarring contrast between her innocent loveliness and the horrific specter looming above her is heightened by the presence of three victims lying on the ground nearby, who Death has already taken.

This striking image was likely a reminder of mortality and the importance of prayer in protecting the soul.

Show lessRead more
  • Title: Denise Poncher before a Vision of Death (Main View (.156) / book image source)
  • Creator: Master of the Chronique scandaleuse
  • Date Created: about 1500
  • Location Created: Paris, France
  • Physical Dimensions: Leaf: 13.3 × 8.7 cm (5 1/4 × 3 7/16 in.)
  • Type: Folio
  • External Link: Find out more about this object on the Museum website.
  • Medium: Tempera colors, ink and gold on parchment
  • Terms of Use: Open Content
  • Number: 2011.40.156
  • Culture: French
  • Credit Line: The J. Paul Getty Museum, Los Angeles, Ms. 109, fol. 156
  • Creator Display Name: Master of the Chronique scandaleuse (French, active about 1493 - 1510)
  • Classification: Manuscripts (Documents)
The J. Paul Getty Museum

Additional Items

Get the app

Explore museums and play with Art Transfer, Pocket Galleries, Art Selfie, and more

Home
Discover
Play
Nearby
Favorites