Gerechtigheid (Justitia) c. 1597 - 1598

This is Jacob Matham’s ‘Justice,’ an engraving that captures the essence of law and fairness through potent symbols. Justice stands before us, holding the scales in her right hand, a measure of equilibrium. The sword in her left represents the power to enforce the law. The scales have ancient roots, appearing in Egyptian depictions of the afterlife. It is where Anubis weighs the hearts of the dead against the feather of Ma'at, truth. Similarly, the sword, a symbol of authority and punishment, finds its echo in the hands of deities across cultures, from the Roman Mars to the Norse Tyr. Justice’s blindfold, although absent here, typically signifies impartiality, a later addition that underscores unbiased judgment. These symbols evoke a collective memory, tapping into our deep-seated desires for order and fairness. This image serves as a potent reminder of the enduring quest for justice. The symbols are not static; they evolve, adapt, and reappear, echoing through time and shaping our understanding of law and order.