Artwork
Justice
Justice is an ink print by the Romanticist artist Samuel William Reynolds I. It dates from 1804 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.
About this work
Overview
Justice is a mezzotint and stipple engraving print created by Samuel William Reynolds I in 1804, currently part of the National Gallery of Art collection in Washington.
Subject & Meaning
The print depicts a tall, blindfolded woman in a flowing dress, symbolizing Justice through the attributes she holds: a sword (representing power and decision) in one hand and a set of scales (embodying balance and fairness) in the other, set against a somber, cloudy backdrop.
Technique & Style
Executed in mezzotint and stipple engraving, the work showcases a detailed, high-contrast black-and-white aesthetic. These techniques allowed for nuanced shading and texture, emphasizing the subject's symbolic elements.
History & Provenance
Created in 1804 by Samuel William Reynolds I, the engraving is now housed at the National Gallery of Art in Washington, though specific details of its acquisition or earlier ownership are not provided here.
Context
Such allegorical representations of Justice were common, serving to visually embody principles of law and fairness. The use of a blindfolded figure, scales, and sword drew on established iconographic conventions.
Artist & collection
