Justitia, Oorlog en Vrede 1657

Curator: This engraving, "Justitia, Oorlog en Vrede", which translates to Justice, War and Peace, was created around 1657 by an anonymous artist. Editor: The austerity of black lines defining so grave a matter… one feels the weighty seriousness. Do you think the composition seems top-heavy? Justice looming, almost unbalanced above the title cartouche? Curator: Indeed, the engraving employs figuration and symbolism within a baroque aesthetic to present an allegory on war and peace, situated within a structured framework. Editor: Structure? Maybe a touch rigid for my taste, all straight lines. But I'm drawn to Justice's blindfold, you know? Like she's saying truth is truth, even if she can’t see it with her own eyes. And war to the left, so aggressive, and peace looks almost resigned to its fate. Curator: Note the detailed linework, indicative of printmaking during the period. Justice holds scales in one hand and a sword in the other; classic symbols signifying the balance and enforcement of law. War, depicted as a male figure in classical armor with a shield, contrasts with the serene female figure representing peace with an olive branch, symbols deeply embedded in western art tradition. Editor: I do like how the artist plays with the ideas though, you know? It is war and peace together. What are the cherubs doing at the bottom? Are they there just as playful decorations or they too are conflicted? Curator: The cherubs soften the gravity. The allegorical composition emphasizes the ever-present tensions between conflict and resolution, a contemplation on human conditions. Editor: It’s almost like a meditation… something so permanent etched into a print can do, something transient and human like you or me, or even these ideas of peace or war. I think this is a great little piece that gives food for thought. Curator: The careful study of line, form, and symbolic language grants the contemporary viewer much insight, I concur.