Temperance, from the series "The Seven Virtues (seated, small, and round)" c. early 20th century

Curator: This is "Temperance," from a series titled "The Seven Virtues (seated, small, and round)," made by an anonymous artist. I am immediately drawn to its earthy tones and the tactile quality of the material. Editor: It certainly has a meditative quality to it. The circular composition, framed within that square plaque, evokes a sense of harmony, doesn't it? Curator: Absolutely. And think about the process of its creation. The work involved in achieving such detail, the labor, the social and religious context of the virtues it represents. Editor: You're right, there's something incredibly intimate about the scale and the subject. The way the figure blends and balances the substances speaks to the virtue. Curator: Considering the unknown artisan behind this artwork, it's remarkable how powerfully it speaks to us across time. Editor: Indeed, an object lesson in the power of form and material to express profound ideas.