Roman Charity c. 18th century

Editor: So, this is "Roman Charity," an engraving by Louis Desplaces. The whole scene feels so…stark, yet tender. What strikes me is the ambiguity of the woman's expression. How do you interpret this work? Curator: Ah, a tale of selflessness and survival! The print depicts a story of Pero, who secretly breastfeeds her imprisoned father, Cimon, condemned to death by starvation. It's a powerful statement on familial duty, wouldn't you agree? Editor: Absolutely! But what about the fire in the background? Does that symbolize something? Curator: Perhaps the turmoil outside, a world of conflict juxtaposed against the quiet act of devotion. Or maybe… a burning away of societal expectations? What do you think? Editor: I hadn’t thought of it that way. I like that. It’s far more nuanced than I initially thought. Curator: Art often rewards a second, third, or even hundredth look!