The date of the engraving is 1513, and we quote the description given by the late Rev.R.St.John Tyrwhitt, showing how differently it may be read.
"Some say it is the end of the strong wicked man, just overtaken by Death and Sin, whom he has served on earth.

It is said that the tuft on the lance indicates his murderous character, being of such unusual size.
You know the use of that appendage was to prevent blood running down from the spearhead to the hands.

They also think that the object under the horse's off hind foot is a snare, into which the old oppressor is to fall instantly.

The expression of the faces may be taken either way: both good men and bad may have hard, regular features; and both good men and bad would set their teeth grimly on seeing Death, with the sands of their life nearly run out.

Some say they think the expression of Death gentle, or only admonitory (as the author of "Sintram"); and I have to thank the authoress of the "Heir of Redclyffe" for showing me a fine impression of the plate, where Death certainly had a not ungentle countenance--snakes and all.