Functional, Semantic and Linguistic Features of Latin Text on Vanitas Works of Fine Art

Abstract

The article presents the results of a study of Latin inscriptions on paintings and engravings of the Vanitas genre. The sources of borrowing citations, their functional-semantic and linguistic load are analysed. The research proves that texts in Latin are an integral part of paintings and engravings of the Vanitas genre, and their use is conditioned by the specifics of the origin and historical development of the genre. The analysis of Latin inscriptions helps form a generalised vision and perception of the world's vanity, the transience of life, and the inevitability of death, which is laid down by artists in their works. The contemplation of such works is designed to inspire viewers with the idea that everything that surrounds and accompanies a person in this life is vanity. Also, there is a significant difference between the death of a person who lives righteously and the death of a sinner. The artists used Latin quotes from various sources to enhance their influence on the audience (the quotes from the Bible and works of ancient authors). Quotes from the works of contemporaries are used less frequently. Artists were relatively free with the quoted phrases: they shortened, supplemented, and combined expressions.