One of the most recognisable and widely used memento mori is the skull, which by its very nature evokes the idea of death. In Albrecht Dürer’s engraving, death is personified by the male figure that leans over the shoulder of the maiden. The skull pictured on the shield faces out to the viewer, and reveals the man’s identity as death. This placement of the skull creates tension in the work, as we, the viewers, are reminded of the ever-lurking presence of death, while the lady appears oblivious.