Gezicht op een zijdeur aan de voorzijde van het Paleis van Justitie in Brussel, België before 1894

Editor: So, this is an engraving, probably from before 1894, depicting the side entrance to the Palace of Justice in Brussels. It’s… imposing. So much detail, and yet the greyscale flattens the depth. What stands out to you? Curator: I'm struck by the rigid symmetry. The Palace as a temple, but to what? Justice, ostensibly. But look closer—the repetition of the rectangles, the sheer unyielding geometry. Does it communicate impartial order, or a sense of institutional control? Editor: I hadn't considered the control aspect. The architecture is supposed to inspire trust, I guess. Is it meant to intimidate as well? Curator: That door, for example, is framed by layers of stone, almost entombed. This invokes permanence. Think about other buildings in this style—government buildings, banks. The symbolic language creates cultural memory; this is how power presents itself. What feelings does the entrance itself convey to you? Editor: Cold, maybe. Distant. It's not exactly welcoming, is it? Curator: No. These shapes speak volumes. The engraving renders this architecture somewhat sterile but reinforces the building’s powerful associations. What does the absence of people within the picture-space say? Editor: The silence feels deafening. As though this is above us, beyond our reach. It is designed to make you feel… small? Curator: Precisely. The builders aimed at invoking lasting impact – physically but also psychologically, and here the symbolism resonates with meanings we’ve inherited across generations. Thank you, I have gained a new point of view! Editor: Thanks! This discussion really unlocked how architecture can speak a language of power through visual cues. I'll never look at government buildings the same way.