Victory! 1863

Editor: This is "Victory!" by Henry Louis Stephens. It seems to be a print, though the date is unknown. What strikes me is how the Black soldier is literally standing on the Confederate soldier while raising the American flag. How do you interpret the symbolism in this piece? Curator: The image is rich with symbolism. Note how the Black soldier's upward gaze contrasts with the defeated Confederate's downward posture. It echoes historical narratives, where figures rise above oppression. Consider also the psychological weight of the flag itself – a symbol of liberation for some, but of continued oppression for others. Editor: That’s a great point. It's interesting how the image evokes such complex emotions, even today. Curator: Indeed. Visual symbols carry potent, evolving meanings across time. This piece makes us ponder the true cost and multifaceted nature of "victory".