Hidden symbols: decoding vanitas paintings

Mary Kisler, Senior Curator, Mackelvie collection, International Art, Mary Kisler looks at the symbolism of the vanitas (still-life) used by both 17th century painters such as Bourjinon, Collier and Netscher and contemporary New Zealand photographer Fiona Pardington.

Image credits:

Edwaert Collier
A Vanitas Still Life
Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tāmaki, gift of Sir George Grey, 1887

J Bourjinon
​Still life with fruit and shellfish 1657
Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tāmaki, gift of an anonymous donor, 1954

Caspar Netscher
Girl arranging flowers 1683 
Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tāmaki, gift of Sir George Grey, 1883

Fiona Pardington 
My Mother's Roses, Pomegranates and Silver Platter of Ihumoana, Ripiro Beach 2013
courtesy of the artist and Starkwhite, Auckland