Stag Death Sounds His Horn (from The Hunt of the Frail Stag) RE238227

"Sickness Spears the Stag and Death Sounds His Horn," a tapestry from "The Hunt of the Frail Stag," captures the somber inevitability of mortality in the South Netherlandish tradition circa 1495–1510. This poignant scene unfolds as a profound allegory of the fragility of life and the inescapable grasp of death.

In this evocative tableau, Sickness, depicted as a formidable figure wielding a spear, strikes the stag, inflicting mortal wounds. Meanwhile, Death, personified as a solemn figure, sounds his horn, signaling the culmination of the stag's journey and the onset of its demise. The stag, once majestic and resilient, now succumbs to the relentless advance of sickness and mortality.

Through its allegorical imagery, this tapestry confronts viewers with the stark realities of human existence, reminding them of the transient nature of life and the inevitability of mortality. It serves as a powerful meditation on the universal human experience of confronting illness, suffering, and ultimately, death.

As a testament to the enduring power of allegory in art, "Sickness Spears the Stag and Death Sounds His Horn" invites viewers to contemplate profound truths about the human condition. It prompts reflection on the impermanence of life and the importance of embracing each moment with gratitude and humility, knowing that death is an integral part of the cycle of existence.

Stag Death Sounds His Horn (from The Hunt of the Frail Stag) RE238227