This is a woodcut -- Prudence (Die Firsichtikait), from "The Seven Virtues" by Hans Burgkmair. Die Firsichtikait means Foresight or Perspective; prudence has very much to do with "seeing" and "seeing things whole, in context".
She is holding an instrument for measuring things -- "taking the measure of things" being a quality of prudence; knowing them with mastery.
The snake is actually a remora, which in attaching itself to the ship, retards its progress -- so prudence is deliberative and has motion under control.
The angel holds a mirror up to her face, because prudence is reflective, pondering, self-aware: "know thyself."
Her bosom is ample, because prudence is fecund and offers the milk of God's grace. It's not parsimonious but generous!
Mrs. Lawler, when will you be visiting St. Joseph Cathedral in New Hampshire? I visited there for the ordination of a seminarian friend, and the kind ladies in the gift shop told me that you’re coming in the fall. I would love to attend if possible!
Would you share a little more about the illustration? 🤍
This is a woodcut -- Prudence (Die Firsichtikait), from "The Seven Virtues" by Hans Burgkmair. Die Firsichtikait means Foresight or Perspective; prudence has very much to do with "seeing" and "seeing things whole, in context".
She is holding an instrument for measuring things -- "taking the measure of things" being a quality of prudence; knowing them with mastery.
The snake is actually a remora, which in attaching itself to the ship, retards its progress -- so prudence is deliberative and has motion under control.
The angel holds a mirror up to her face, because prudence is reflective, pondering, self-aware: "know thyself."
Her bosom is ample, because prudence is fecund and offers the milk of God's grace. It's not parsimonious but generous!
Sources:
https://www.romeartlover.it/Iconography2.html
https://www.metmuseum.org/art/collection/search/430796
Thank you for the thorough response, ma'am! Quite thought-provoking...
This is a wonderful connection to the Wisdom reading yesterday :)
Mrs. Lawler, when will you be visiting St. Joseph Cathedral in New Hampshire? I visited there for the ordination of a seminarian friend, and the kind ladies in the gift shop told me that you’re coming in the fall. I would love to attend if possible!
In September! I am not sure of the date. I will post it on the blog!
Wonderful, thank you! Are you able to hint at the topic of your visit?
I think it will be beauty? Prayer in the home? Must check notes!!