Knocking at Death’s Door: A Sculpture by Giovanni Battista Cevasco

Knocking at Death’s Door: A Sculpture by Giovanni Battista Cevasco

In this poignant artwork created in 1875 by Giovanni Battista Cevasco, a widow is depicted knocking on death's door with one hand, while holding a wreath of victory in the other. The wreath symbolizes triumph over death, representing resurrection and renewal.


The widow in the sculpture is identified as the wife of Pietro Badaracco, a person of wealth as indicated by her attire. Above the door, various symbols are depicted, including a compass, an anchor, books, a globe, and a ship's helm, alluding to the deceased's occupation as a captain of a ship or shipping fleet. The door-knocker itself bears a winged hourglass, symbolizing the fleeting nature of time.

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