Large Pendant, Temperance Standing at Centre 1593

Daniel Mignot etched this pendant design, featuring Temperance, around the turn of the 17th century. Temperance, a virtue of self-control, stands centrally, a figure drawn from classical antiquity. In her hands, she bears vessels, symbols of moderation, and perhaps, the measured mixing of wine and water. Consider how this motif echoes through time. In ancient Roman frescoes, we see similar figures, guiding citizens toward balance. Yet, the vessels themselves transform. In medieval tapestries, Temperance might hold scales, weighing actions rather than liquids. Here, Temperance is framed by ornate, stylized foliage—a common visual trope in Renaissance and Baroque art. These elements serve not merely as decoration, but as a reminder of the natural order that Temperance seeks to uphold. This visual language of restraint and abundance speaks to our complex relationship with desire. It’s a recurring theme that continues to evolve, reflecting our changing cultural values and inner struggles.