Judgement of Solomon (1) 1998

Curator: This is Leon Kossoff's "Judgement of Solomon (1)," held in the Tate Collection. The dimensions of the image are roughly 215 by 298 mm. Editor: It's stark, almost brutal in its rawness. The hurried lines convey the emotional intensity of the scene, all suspicion and agony. Curator: The Judgement of Solomon is rich with symbolic weight, isn't it? A king, a dilemma, two mothers, and a single child. It speaks of profound moral questioning, right and wrong, what is gained or lost. Editor: Absolutely. I see it as a powerful commentary on the exploitation of women and their bodies, even within supposed justice systems. Whose interests are really being served? Curator: Kossoff's technique—the frenetic, almost chaotic lines—heightens the tension. It pushes past the literal story, exposing the raw emotional core of desperation and maternal agony. Editor: The image is a study in power dynamics, isn't it? Solomon is centralized and enthroned, literally elevated above the women whose fates he controls. Curator: It's a visually and emotionally charged image. Editor: Yes, it encourages us to grapple with uncomfortable truths about justice, power, and gender.