Artwork

The Seven Virtues: Temperance

The Seven Virtues:  Temperance, by Hans Burgkmair the Elder, 1510
The Seven Virtues:  Temperance, by Hans Burgkmair the Elder, 1510

The Seven Virtues: Temperance is a print by the Renaissance artist Hans Burgkmair the Elder. It dates from 1510 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.

About this work

Overview

The Seven Virtues: Temperance is a print by Hans Burgkmair, created around 1510. It is part of a series and is currently held at The Cleveland Museum of Art.

Subject & Meaning

The print depicts Temperance, a female figure representing moderation, standing on a platform with a curtain behind her. She holds a jug and cup, symbolizing balance and restraint. Inscriptions around her head add to the symbolic context.

Technique & Style

The image is characterized by attention to detail and a focus on realism, reflecting the artistic principles of the Renaissance. The use of a light-colored background highlights the central figure and her attributes.

Artist & collection

This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: Cleveland Museum of Art open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.