Justice c. 1520

This engraving, Justice, was made by Master I.I.C.A. The image portrays Justice as a female figure carrying the scales of justice. Behind her we see a sword and a torch. This image relies on established visual codes. These go back to classical antiquity. Justice is often represented as a woman, a symbol of fairness and impartiality. The scales signify the weighing of evidence, the sword represents the power to enforce decisions, and the torch symbolizes truth and reason. We should examine the historical context in which this image was created. Where was it made? Who was it for? How did its patrons understand its message? By looking into these questions, we can reveal the social and political forces that shaped its creation and reception. The image also invites us to reflect on the role of institutions in shaping the concept of justice itself. By studying historical legal documents, political treatises, and social commentaries, we can gain a deeper understanding of this engraving.