Vanitas Still Life represents time through objects while utilizing Cornelis Norbertus Gijsbrechts’ unique style. Here, he peels the corner of the frame and blends the stone shelf to the imaginary canvas to trick the viewer’s eyes. Some of the objects also contribute to the illusionary effect, like the cane in the bottom half, leaning against the stone archway and seemingly popping out of the canvas. But outside of the illusions, time is ever-present. From the momentary falling of an hourglass’ sand to the eternal music of the violin, time flows in an unset manner.

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