PRIDE & ORNAMENT | The folly of vanity

Pride & Ornament: The folly of vanity will consider the theme of vanity through paintings, prints, publications and objects from the Collection as well as public and private lenders.

We now think of vanity as an obsession with one’s appearance yet historically, many artworks served to warn viewers of the ephemeral nature of youth and beauty, as well as the brevity of human life and even the inevitability of death.

The Johnston Collection would like to acknowledge The University of Melbourne Special Collections for their support of this exhibition.

pictured William Johnston, The Johnston Collection