Moderation 1582

Paolo Veronese painted Moderation, a 160 by 160 cm canvas, during the height of the Renaissance in Venice, a period where humanist ideals flourished. During this time, artists often drew on classical antiquity for their themes, using mythological figures to embody virtues. Here, Veronese presents us with a female figure, understood to be an allegory of moderation, in a style reminiscent of ancient goddesses. However, Veronese was also a product of his time. It’s worth noting the sensuality with which he renders the female form, a characteristic of Venetian art. What does it mean to temper desire? Is moderation about suppressing the self or striking a delicate balance? Veronese doesn’t give us easy answers, but instead invites us to ponder these tensions. We must reflect on our own understanding of morality and self-control, and the place of these ideas within our society.