This painting is an allegory of the transience of life. It shows a number of objects symbolising the fleetingness of time and the vanity of all human ambition. As moral and religious metaphors, they exhort the viewer to observe moderation in worldly affairs and sensual pleasures. In depicting these objects, the artist is also showing off his skill at imitating reality – his painted roses admittedly spread no seductive fragrance, but nor will they ever wilt and die.