The skull is a potent representation of mortality and death. It acts as a reminder of the ephemeral nature of existence and the certainty of death. The skull is often displayed in vanitas and memento mori artworks to evoke reflection on the transience of human existence. A smoldering cigarette serves to emphasize the idea of transience even more. The cigarette symbolizes the temporary aspect of life as it ultimately goes out. It can therefore be interpreted as a metaphor for the briefness of human life.