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The Four Cardinal Virtues Prudence
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The Four Cardinal Virtues Prudence
Late 15thttthcentury marble-inlay mosaic of Prudence, one of the four Cardinal Virtues, along with Justice, Temperance and Fortitude, that are portrayed in the marble pavement of the interior of the Cathedral of Siena. The symbol for prudence is frequently a woman with two heads, holding a mirror and a serpent. Here she has three heads and there is no mirror. She has a young, middle aged and an older face to represent past, present and future. Plato identified the four cardinal virtues in the 4thh century BC in the Protagoras, later they became part of the Christian tradition
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Media ID 9273149
© SHEILA TERRY/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY
Ancient Greece Cathedral Iconography Legend Mosaic Myth Mythological Old Age Pavement Philosophy Plato Renaissance Serpent Siena Symbol Youth Cardinal Virtues Duomo Middle Age Prudence
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EDITORS COMMENTS
This print showcases a mesmerizing late 15th-century marble-inlay mosaic of Prudence, one of the revered Four Cardinal Virtues. Nestled within the magnificent interior of the Cathedral of Siena, this masterpiece stands alongside Justice, Temperance, and Fortitude on the marble pavement. Prudence is often symbolized by a woman with two heads holding a mirror and a serpent; however, in this portrayal, she astoundingly possesses three heads without her characteristic mirror. Each face represents different stages of life - youth, middle age, and old age - signifying past, present, and future. The origins of these cardinal virtues trace back to ancient Greece when Plato first identified them in his renowned work Protagoras during the 4th century BC. Over time, they seamlessly integrated into Christian tradition as pillars for moral guidance. This remarkable mosaic effortlessly blends mythological symbolism with profound philosophical concepts from both antiquity and Renaissance eras. The intricate iconography beautifully captures the essence of Prudence while evoking an air of mystery surrounding her three-headed form. As we delve into this image's rich tapestry that spans across various historical periods and cultures – from ancient Greece to medieval times – we are reminded that art has always been intertwined with storytelling and conveying timeless wisdom. This print serves as a testament to humanity's enduring fascination with mythology and its ability to inspire contemplation about our own lives through visual representation.
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