Temperance 1583 - 1584

Giovanni Caccini carved 'Temperance' from marble, a material prized for its workability and association with classical antiquity. Marble's inherent qualities—its cool touch, dense weight, and luminous surface—contribute to the sculpture's sense of timelessness and idealized beauty. Caccini skillfully exploited the stone's potential, using a variety of tools to achieve the figure’s smooth skin, flowing drapery, and intricate details. The carving process was arduous, involving physical labor, technical expertise, and artistic vision. Each strike of the chisel, each rasp of the file, was a deliberate act shaping the stone into its final form. 'Temperance' reflects the social context of the time, where skilled artisans like Caccini were valued for their ability to transform raw materials into objects of cultural and symbolic significance. The sculpture’s refined elegance speaks to the patronage of wealthy elites who commissioned such works. By considering the material, the making, and the context, we can appreciate the rich layers of meaning embedded within this artwork.