Figurehead: "Janus" c. 1938

Ingrid Selmer-Larsen made this watercolor painting called "Figurehead: Janus," sometime in the 20th century. Selmer-Larsen has rendered a weathered sculpture of the Roman god Janus, known for his two faces looking in opposite directions. Janus is traditionally associated with doorways, beginnings, and transitions. In this context, the figurehead suggests the ship’s passage from one world to another, navigating the unknown with foresight and retrospection. Created during a period marked by significant social and political shifts, the painting invites consideration of how societies negotiate change. Is it a comment on the need to balance tradition and progress? How does the image resonate with Norway's maritime history and its cultural identity? To fully appreciate this work, we can delve into the artist’s biography, consult historical archives on Norwegian maritime culture, and explore the symbolism of Janus in art and literature. Through such research, we uncover the deeper layers of meaning embedded in this captivating piece.