Justice-Charity c. 19th century

Curator: This is Marco Zignani's "Justice-Charity," a work held here at the Harvard Art Museums. Editor: The severe lines and stark contrast give it a neoclassical feel. It's almost like looking at two ancient sculptures. Curator: The print depicts two allegorical figures: Justice, holding a sword and scales, and Charity, surrounded by children. Note the architectural niches framing each figure. Editor: Framing Justice and Charity in that way highlights the institutional frameworks that shape them. Who gets to define justice and charity, and how is that power exercised? Curator: Zignani's print likely circulated within academic and artistic circles, reinforcing established social virtues. Editor: I find myself questioning whose virtues these were meant to uphold, and at whose expense. Curator: It makes you think about the public role of imagery in promoting particular values. Editor: Absolutely. It's a reminder that art isn't neutral, and that these images were made with intent.