The Honorable Samuel Adams, Esq., First Delegate to Congress from Massachusetts 1781 - 1783

This engraving depicts The Honorable Samuel Adams, Esq., First Delegate to Congress from Massachusetts, made by John Norman in the late 18th century. The composition is divided into three distinct registers, creating a hierarchical structure. The central oval frames a portrait of Adams, its intricate border contrasting with the smooth planes of his face. Below, a rectangular panel displays symbolic motifs, including scales of justice, underscoring themes of balance and order. Look at how Norman utilizes line and texture. Each stroke meticulously defines form and contributes to the overall density of the image. The tripartite structure can be interpreted through a semiotic lens, with each register serving as a signifier. Adams’ portrait symbolizes leadership, while the symbols beneath signify the principles of justice and governance. Norman’s engraving encapsulates the ideological underpinnings of the early American republic, emphasizing the delicate balance between individual representation and institutional authority. The print is a testament to how visual media shaped the era's political discourse.