Charity

This sculpture is one of three, representing virtues, which are thought to have been carved for the monument of Gaston de Foix, commander of the French forces in Italy. Each is by a different sculptor, employed by Agostino Busti, known as Bambaia, to assist in producing the many figures required for the commission. Fortitude and Charity were appropriate virtues for a warrior as they suggested strength and clemency.

Charity is tradtionally represented either holding a flame or two or three infants. The children might symbolise Faith and Hope, who without Charity are nothing (see C. Ripa). It is unusual to represent Charity with only one child, because of its similarity to the Virgin and Child.