Art terms explained
In this glossary we’ve explained some common art terms, and plan to add more terms and more detail. Use the Website feedback page to suggest additional terms to be explained.
vanitas
Latin for vanity. A type of still-life painting which, by featuring a collection of objects such as skulls or rotting fruit, symbolises death, the brevity of life and the passing of earthly pleasures and achievements. Popular in the Netherlands in the 17th century.
