Justicia (Justice)

The print visualizes the classical personification of Justice, embodying fairness and authority. The blindfold signifies impartiality, the scales measure truth, and the sword represents the power to enforce judgment. The surrounding angelic figure and the lion, symbols of divine approval and strength, underscore the societal ideal of law as both righteous and formidable.

Van Leyden employed fine line engraving to achieve intricate detail, a hallmark of early Netherlandish printmaking. The crisp, cross‑hatching renders textures—from the smooth drapery of the figure to the fur of the lion—while maintaining a clear, planar composition. The work reflects the artist’s skill in translating painterly concerns into the monochrome medium of print.

Created in 1530, the engraving bears the inscription "Justicia" at its base and the date in the upper margin, confirming its authorship. Lucas van Leyden, primarily known for his paintings and genre scenes, produced relatively few prints, making this piece a notable example of his printmaking output within the early 16th‑century Dutch artistic milieu.