Matigheid met gepersonifieerde zonden c. 1547 - 1676

This engraving, by an anonymous artist, features a complex array of figures symbolizing moderation and sin. At the center, 'Temperance' stands bathed in light, flanked by personifications of virtues and vices. Notice the scales and measuring tools at the bottom, symbols of balance and control. These are ancient motifs, reappearing in various forms across cultures. Consider, for instance, the Egyptian goddess Maat, who used a scale to weigh souls. Here, the scales visually link to the central figure of Temperance, emphasizing the importance of moderation. Yet, the presence of the sins suggests an inherent tension, a constant struggle to maintain equilibrium. Observe how the artist portrays the figures of excess—gluttony, for example—in exaggerated forms. This distortion, like a caricature, serves to highlight the dangers of imbalance. The image becomes a stage for a psychological drama, reflecting our internal battles. The symbols in this engraving are not static, but rather, they evolve, taking on new meanings in different eras. They remind us that cultural memory is not linear; it resurfaces, transforms, and continues to engage us on a deep, subconscious level.