Temperance 1535 - 1545

This small, early 16th-century bronze plaquette titled "Temperance" was created by the German artist Peter Flötner. During the Renaissance, there was a renewed interest in classical antiquity, and personifications of virtues became popular artistic motifs. Here, Flötner depicts Temperance as a gracefully posed woman, calmly pouring liquid from one vessel into another. This controlled action symbolizes moderation and balance, core tenets of the virtue she represents. In an era marked by religious and social upheaval, the concept of Temperance held particular significance, offering a path to inner harmony amidst external chaos. The subtle eroticism of the female figure invites us to consider the complex relationship between the control of the passions and the acceptance of our bodies. As we reflect on this image, let’s consider how we can seek balance between our inner desires and the demands of the world around us.