Allegory Of Life And Death, Buffalo Bone, 20th Century

Allegorical Bone Relief – Vanitas, Memento Mori, Germany, 20th Century Work.

This sculpted bone relief depicts an allegorical composition on the themes of life, death, and (re)birth, in the spirit of memento mori. The scene unfolds horizontally, juxtaposing two heads, male and female, facing each other, linked by a profusion of symbolic figures. At the center, a fetus nestled within an organic structure is surrounded by winged putti, while skulls, bones, and a complete skeleton recall human finitude. Trunks, wings, and anatomical elements create a dense narrative evoking the passage of time and the eternal cycle of existence.
The quality of execution is remarkably fine, with deep relief and meticulous detail in the faces, hair, wings, and bone structures.
The piece rests on a black wooden base, accentuating the contrast and expressive power of the sculpture.

Its attribution to Germany is based on the Germanic tradition of bone carving, the enduring themes of vanitas in Central European culture, and a sophisticated iconography inherited from the Baroque period, here reinterpreted in a contemporary style From the middle of the 20th centur. 

Excellent condition.

Dimensions with base: 24 x 15 cm