Charity, from the series "The Seven Virtues (seated, rectangular)" early 20th century (original from c.1540-1546)

Curator: Here we have a small, rectangular relief titled "Charity," part of a series called "The Seven Virtues," created by an anonymous artist. Editor: It’s strikingly intimate, despite the classical setting. The figures emerge in a warm monochrome, almost like terracotta. Curator: The artist's choice of material is key; it elevates a virtue, like charity, into a tangible, reproducible object. Consider the labour involved in crafting such details. Editor: Indeed, and within the context of the family unit depicted, we can consider broader questions about the labor of care, often disproportionately shouldered by women. Curator: Precisely. It makes us think about the distribution and societal structures around caring for others. Editor: It's a reminder that virtue isn't just an ideal; it's work, both in its making and in its practice. A lot to unpack for something so small!