Charity, from L'Amico di fanciulli (Children's Friend) 1788

"Charity" is an engraving by Francesco Bartolozzi, made as an illustration for the book "Children's Friend". Created in the late 18th century, this print reflects the era's complex relationship with motherhood, morality, and social responsibility. The central female figure embodies 'Charity', surrounded by children, she exemplifies nurturing care, a key virtue in the patriarchal societies of the time. However, this idealized vision obscures the realities of gender and class. Women, especially those of lower economic status, faced immense pressures to conform to these standards. Simultaneously, the image of the children evoke vulnerability and dependency. The floating profile of Marie Antoinette highlights class disparities of that time. By pointing to Antoinette, Bartolozzi suggests that even royalty should be charitable. Is this an appeal or a criticism? In this context, "Charity" isn't just a virtue but a complex negotiation of power, gender, and social expectations. The print invites us to reflect on the stories we tell about virtue, and who benefits from them.