Italian, late 17th/ early 18th century. Model of a skull and bones

terracotta - 15.5 by 30 by 23cm., 6 1/8 by 11¾ by 9in - Estimate 8,000—12,000 GBP

NOTE: The skull is the most potent memento mori (a Latin term that translates as 'remember that you are mortal') in Western art as well as the most widespread personification of death. In the 17th century memento mori served as both as a warning symbol and an object for meditation. The present skull and bones was likely a model for a marble which would have sat in a church terminating a life-size crucifixion group reminding people of their own mortality.

Sotheby's. Old Master Sculpture and Works of Art. 02 Dec 08. London. photo courtesy Sotheby's. www.sothebys.com