Untitled c. 19th century

Editor: This is an untitled engraving by Joseph Andrews, housed at the Harvard Art Museums. The figure seems to represent Justice, holding scales and a sword. What cultural significance do you see in this image? Curator: The enduring symbol of Justice, often depicted as a woman, carries immense weight. The scales represent impartiality, the sword signifies authority and enforcement. This imagery acts as a visual shorthand, connecting us to centuries of legal and ethical thought. What emotions does this visual language evoke in you? Editor: A sense of order, I think, but also a little severity. I never realized how powerful those symbols were. Curator: Indeed. They are designed to inspire reverence for the law and the pursuit of fairness. These symbols transcend time, reminding us of our collective aspiration for a just society. We can see the lasting power of symbols.