John Locke, 1632-1704, Philospher [obverse] c. 1733

This bronze medal of John Locke was crafted by Jean Dassier, an artist born in Geneva. Note the way Locke is presented: his gaze averted, his face illuminated, and the inscription of his name surrounding him. Such representation echoes the visual language of classical portraiture, an artistic tradition rooted in antiquity and revived during the Renaissance. In ancient Rome, the averted gaze was a symbol of thoughtful contemplation, often associated with philosophers and leaders. This motif reappears throughout history in depictions of intellectual figures such as Plato and Seneca. Think of the way this gesture conveys a sense of introspection. Over time, this symbol has become deeply embedded in our collective visual memory, and when we see it, it subconsciously calls forth associations with knowledge and wisdom. It is a cultural memory, and a powerful force engaging viewers on a deep, subconscious level. Ultimately, the averted gaze as a symbol continues its cyclical progression, resurfacing, evolving, and taking on new meanings in different historical contexts.