Read the visual description
This is a drawing featuring a formal scene within a grand architectural setting. The composition includes numerous figures dressed in period clothing, set amidst columns and steps. In the background, flags can be seen. Soft shading and cross-hatching techniques are used for depth and contrast. Construction work is depicted in the distance on the right side. The drawing showcases detailed costumes, architecture, and group dynamics.
National Gallery of Art · Print
Allegory of Justice
Willem Swanenburgh, after Joachim Anthonisz Wtewael
- Date
- 1606
- Medium
- engraving on laid paper
- Dimensions
- plate: 30 x 40.2 cm (11 13/16 x 15 13/16 in.) sheet: 31 x 41.4 cm (12 3/16 x 16 5/16 in.)
- Classification
- Accession number
- 2012.92.611
- Credit line
- Gift of Ruth Cole Kainen
- Time span
- 1601 to 1650
- Department
- CG-E
Portfolio and series
- Series
- Thronus Iustitiae (Plate 12)
Subjects and terms
- architecture
- inscription
- calligraphic
- Weapons
- Figures
Provenance
(Hill-Stone Fine Prints & Drawings, New York); Ruth Kainen, Washington, D.C., purchased November 6, 2007; Gift to NGA, 2012.
Inscription
in image, at bottom left: CVSichem edit: et excud: IWtewael inuentor. GSwaneb: sculp: ; below image: Judicis officium moderatur sanctio legis, / Nec plus, quam causae flagitat ordo potest / Ergo ubi cognito solemni more peracta est. / Nil superest praeter dicere jura reis. / Nec fas est sontem poenis absoluere, nedum / Criminis exortem dedere supplicio. / Regi plura licent , non ut tamen omnia possit, / Sed veniae tantum jusque salutis habet; below image, at left: XII
NGA object ID 154034. Collection metadata is reproduced under CC0. This work is included because its NGA published-image record is marked open access; visitors should recheck the source record before substantial reuse.