Faith, from the series "Eight Virtues (seated)" early 20th century (original from c.1540-46)

Curator: Here we have "Faith," part of the "Eight Virtues (seated)" series, a small bronze roundel, only about 8 centimeters in diameter, from an anonymous artist. Editor: My first thought is how the light catches the folds of her robe, giving it an almost liquid quality. It's surprisingly tactile for such a small piece. Curator: The scale belies the complexity of the casting; think of the technical skill required to render such detail in bronze, especially with the undercuts on the cross and chalice. It speaks to the economic value placed on devotional imagery. Editor: There's also a sense of melancholic grace here. The way she holds the cross, almost embracing it, and that upward gaze... I wonder what she's looking towards. Curator: The pose and attributes--the cross and chalice--are classical signifiers. It's fascinating how these symbols were reproduced and consumed across different social classes and contexts. Editor: It feels intimate, despite the formal religious iconography. It's like catching a private moment of contemplation. Curator: Indeed. It's a testament to the enduring power of crafted objects to convey abstract ideas. Editor: A beautiful reminder that even the smallest object can contain a universe of meaning.