Temperance

Art Historical Context

Behold *Temperance*, a masterful engraving by Marcantonioondi, created after a design by the Renaissance genius Raphael around 1515-1525. This intimate print, measuring just 22.1 x 10.8 cm, captures the cardinal virtue of moderation through elegant lines and balanced composition, trimmed precisely to the plate mark for a clean presentation. Raimondi, one of the finest engravers of his time, played a pivotal role in the High Renaissance by translating Raphael's fluid, harmonious drawings into durable prints. Engraving—a meticulous intaglio technique involving incised metal plates inked and pressed onto paper—allowed these virtuoso designs to reach collectors far beyond Rome, revolutionizing art dissemination during the early 16th century. Housed in the National Gallery of Art's Rosenwald Collection (Department CG-E), *Temperance* exemplifies the era's revival of classical ideals, where virtues like self-control symbolized moral and civic harmony. Its precision and grace invite visitors to appreciate how printmaking bridged elite painting with everyday appreciation, making Raphael's legacy enduringly accessible.