47 The Seven Vices: Desperation Giotto di Bondone (1266-1337)

The composition presents a solitary figure framed within a rectangular aperture, evoking a sense of confinement and exposure. The individual is draped in flowing white garments that obscure any distinct physical features, contributing to their anonymity and suggesting a universal representation of the depicted emotion. Their posture is one of profound distress; arms outstretched as if reaching for something unattainable or warding off an unseen threat, while the head is bowed, obscuring facial details yet conveying palpable anguish.
Above the figure, a thorny crown appears suspended, its sharp points seemingly piercing the individual’s hair and scalp. This element introduces a layer of symbolic complexity, potentially referencing suffering, sacrifice, or the burden of guilt. The inscription above further clarifies the subject matter as Desperation.
The background is divided into two distinct zones: a dark, indeterminate space behind the figure and a lighter, textured area to either side. The contrast emphasizes the isolation of the central character, placing them in stark relief against an ambiguous environment. The texture on the sides appears almost like aged plaster or stone, hinting at antiquity and permanence, which could be interpreted as suggesting that desperation is a timeless human condition.
The inscription at the bottom, rendered in Latin script, provides additional textual context, likely elaborating on the nature of despair and its consequences. The overall effect is one of solemnity and introspection, inviting contemplation on the depths of human suffering and the psychological states that drive individuals to such extremes. The deliberate lack of specific detail allows for a broad interpretation, making the work resonate with viewers across different cultural and historical contexts.