 The dead ox itself is a reminder of death and is thus linked to the 'memento mori' idea, the notion that humans should remember that they are mortal.Together with the dated 1579 (Hermitage Museum), the shows that van Cleve preferred a broad and free brushstroke.In the "Carnival in a village with beggars dancing" van Cleve has also used various motifs from Pieter Bruegel the Elder's works.