Studies of allegorical figures, and architectural sketches 1833

Eugène Delacroix rendered these allegorical figures and architectural sketches in pencil. At the heart of this sketch is the inscription "JUSTICE," a concept rendered through symbolic figures and motifs. Consider the figure of Justice, often depicted blindfolded to represent impartiality. The sword she wields, ready to strike down the guilty, harkens back to ancient Roman depictions of Virtus, embodying courage and moral excellence. This iconography evolved through medieval and Renaissance art, where Justice was incorporated into allegorical representations of good governance. Reflect on the image of dogs, commonly seen as symbols of fidelity and vigilance, which are included in this sketch. They appear across cultures, from ancient Egyptian depictions of Anubis, guarding the dead, to Renaissance emblems of loyalty. Such symbols are not static but undergo a continuous process of adaptation and reinterpretation. These images evoke a powerful psychological response, tapping into our collective memory and subconscious associations. The concept of justice, deeply rooted in our psyche, engages viewers on a profound level. The cyclical nature of these motifs highlights how symbols resurface, evolve, and take on new meanings throughout history.