Roman Charity c. 17th century

Curator: Before us we have Claude Mellan's "Roman Charity," created sometime during his active years, 1598 to 1688. It’s a powerful piece depicting a timeless act. Editor: It hits you right away, doesn't it? The drama, the light and shadow... there's an almost unsettling intimacy in their embrace. Curator: Absolutely. Mellan presents a story of filial devotion and sacrifice, influenced by classical accounts. The narrative is about a daughter, who secretly breastfeeds her imprisoned, starving father. Editor: There is something both tender and deeply disturbing about the visual of it. It plays with the idea of nurture, but also imprisonment. Curator: The image became a statement about civic virtue, familial bonds, and the lengths to which individuals would go to uphold moral obligations. Editor: It’s an idea of love pushed to its extreme, challenging the viewer to confront uncomfortable truths about sacrifice and human connection.