Allegory of Vanity and Repentance

Allegory of Vanity and Repentance is a 1616 oil painting by the Dutch artist Cornelis van Haarlem.

It is now housed in the Musée des Beaux-Arts of Strasbourg, France, with the inventory number 1969.

Although the Dutch Republic was predominantly Protestant in 1616, van Haarlem created this painting for a Catholic patron.

On a table before them lie a crown, golden coins, and other precious wordly objects, such as a hanap.

A bearded monk, visible through the window, captures the viewer's attention by pointing towards Jesus praying in the Garden; his outstretched right hand towards the couple signifies that they may join him through repentance and be saved.