Personificatie van Gerechtigheid (Justitia) met een struisvogel 1765

Curator: The first thing that strikes me is that melancholy. It's a feeling not often associated with Justice, who here looks rather burdened. Editor: That's interesting. Here we have "Personification of Justice with an Ostrich," created around 1765 by Robert Strange. It's an engraving, and while Strange was known for reproducing paintings, here he seems to have conceived the design himself, drawing from classical allegorical traditions. Curator: An ostrich! Talk about a curveball. Usually Justice chills with lions or eagles – powerful, majestic types. This bird... feels different. It’s tall, sure, but awkward somehow, a bit goofy, like a cosmic joke I’m not in on. And that vacant, thousand-yard stare... Editor: Ostriches were included in emblems related to Justice because they eat iron and were thus seen as symbolizing equity. Of course, the historical context of 'equity' at the time complicates that a little! It highlights the complex interplay between justice as an abstract ideal and the often messy and compromised reality of its implementation within society. Curator: Messy and compromised indeed! Looking closer, the scales of justice hang almost precariously. It isn't that sturdy unwavering beacon one expects, you know? I wonder what preoccupied Strange’s mind when he imagined this scene. The lines of the engraving create a somber, thoughtful scene overall. I am also drawn to the fact that Justitia has one bare breast. Any meaning to that? Editor: You touch on a great point. Strange created this artwork during a time of intense social upheaval. Many saw bare breasts as a symbol of honesty and truth and liberty! The artwork shows us what were some of the dominant views of equity in the 18th century! Curator: Well, despite its possible allegorical intent, that forlorn ostrich still haunts me. In conclusion, perhaps justice requires a healthy dose of both gravitas and absurdity to truly find balance? Editor: It's a powerful piece for such subtle strokes, forcing us to reflect on Justice as more than just an abstract concept, it's constantly in progress, negotiated through culture.