Traditional Culture

Prudence and Art: Discerning the Right Course of Action

In this first installment of ‘The Art of Virtue,’ we reacquaint readers with the virtues and the art of prudence.
Prudence and Art: Discerning the Right Course of Action
A detail of ”Allegory of Prudence,” 1645, by Simon Vouet. Oil on canvas; 45 7/8 inches by 35 5/8 inches. Fabre Museum, Montpellier, France. Artists often depicted the four Cardinal Virtues of prudence, justice, fortitude, and temperance to inspire viewers. Public Domain
Lorraine Ferrier
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In our new series, “The Art of Virtue,” we use traditional art to introduce each of the four Cardinal Virtues of prudence, justice, fortitude, and temperance; and the three theological virtues of faith, hope, and charity. We hope that the visual guidance in these historic artworks will nourish our innate goodness today. 
Since time immemorial, great world leaders and religious, philosophical, and literary figures have guided us to live a virtuous life. The works of artists and architects alike are moral guides using a centuries-old visual language of motifs. These works can help us be the best versions of ourselves.
Lorraine Ferrier
Lorraine Ferrier
Author
Lorraine Ferrier writes about fine arts and craftsmanship for The Epoch Times. She focuses on artists and artisans, primarily in North America and Europe, who imbue their works with beauty and traditional values. She's especially interested in giving a voice to the rare and lesser-known arts and crafts, in the hope that we can preserve our traditional art heritage. She lives and writes in a London suburb, in England.