Temperance

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Temperance

c. 1523-1530

Master IB (German, active 1520s–1530)

Temperance is one of seven Christian virtues personified in this series, which were often represented in medieval wall paintings and illuminated manuscripts. Embodiments of abstract concepts, personifications usually took the form of female figures, each identified by specific attributes such as Faith's chalice and cross, Fortitude's lion, and the sword and scales of Justice. Here the variety of poses demonstrates the artist's newly acquired skill in depicting the nude. Series of small engravings--the senses, the virtues, the gods--appealed to collectors who enjoyed deciphering the symbols and marveling over such minute details as the towns and houses depicted in the background.

Currently not on view

Object Details

Title:

Temperance
Temperantia, Plate 7 from the series The Seven Christian Virtues

Date:

c. 1523-1530

Artist:

Master IB (German, active 1520s–1530)

Medium:

Engraving

Dimensions:

Sheet: 3 1/16 x 2 1/16 inches (7.7 x 5.2 cm)

Classification:

Prints

Credit Line:

The Muriel and Philip Berman Gift, acquired from the John S. Phillips bequest of 1876 to the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts, with funds contributed by Muriel and Philip Berman, gifts (by exchange) of Lisa Norris Elkins, Bryant W. Langston, Samuel S. White 3rd and Vera White, with additional funds contributed by John Howard McFadden, Jr., Thomas Skelton Harrison, and the Philip H. and A.S.W. Rosenbach Foundation, 1985

Accession Number:

1985-52-613g

Geography:

Made in Nuremberg, Bavaria, Germany, Europe

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