Van Gogh created this motif as a subversive comment on the academic tradition of vanitas. A simple skull used in painting studios gained a theatrical quality under his brush.

The painting shows that even an ordinary study prop can become a reflection on the passage of time. The minimalism of the form and the sharp light emphasise the fragility of life. The Dark Edition silver coin faithfully preserves the character of the master’s work in an elegant, collectible form.

“Art is to console those who are broken by life”.
Vincent van Gogh