The Judgment of Solomon 

Curator: This is Simeon Solomon's drawing, "The Judgment of Solomon," housed here at the Tate. It's a rather diminutive work on paper, only 179 by 234 millimeters. Editor: My first impression is its sparseness; the linework appears incredibly delicate, almost tentative, yet it depicts such a powerful scene. Curator: Indeed. Solomon often explored themes of justice and morality, and this biblical scene allows for a rich interplay of symbolic gestures. Editor: The positioning of Solomon, almost enthroned within the drawing's central rectangle, highlights the potency of the Old Testament stories. Curator: Consider how Solomon's judgment became a symbol of divine wisdom, and that resonates powerfully in later interpretations. Editor: It's fascinating how Solomon weaves together form and narrative to evoke such a strong moral undercurrent. Curator: Yes, Solomon distills the essence of judgment into an incredibly economical but resonant composition. Editor: A small drawing with enormous implications, it seems.