J.K. Rowling teases new book with 17th-century vanitas painting
J.K. Rowling, author of the Harry Potter series, has teased her upcoming work by posting a 17th-century Dutch vanitas painting as her Twitter cover image. The painting, "An Allegory of the Vanities of Human Life" by Harmen Steenwyck (c. 1640), is held by the National Gallery in London. Rowling wrote, "It's hard to find something that sums up everything I'm working on right now, but this painting comes close." The author is currently working on two books: one under her own name and another under her pseudonym Robert Galbraith. The vanitas genre, popular in Flanders and the Netherlands in the 16th and 17th centuries, typically features skulls surrounded by objects like books, musical instruments, and shells, contrasting earthly possessions with the inevitability of death. Fans are speculating on possible connections to the Harry Potter universe or new projects.
Key facts
- J.K. Rowling posted a painting as a clue for her new work.
- The painting is 'An Allegory of the Vanities of Human Life' by Harmen Steenwyck.
- The painting dates from around 1640.
- The painting is in the collection of the National Gallery in London.
- Rowling is working on two books: one under her name, one as Robert Galbraith.
- The vanitas genre contrasts earthly goods with mortality.
- Rowling announced the books via Twitter.
- The painting features skulls, books, musical instruments, and shells.
Entities
Artists
- J.K. Rowling
- Robert Galbraith
- Harmen Steenwyck
Institutions
- National Gallery of London
Locations
- London
- United Kingdom
- Flanders
- Netherlands