Untitled (judge sitting at his desk with large book in front) 1947

Curator: This photogram is simply titled "Untitled (judge sitting at his desk with large book in front)" by Jack Gould and resides in the Harvard Art Museums. Editor: It's striking, isn't it? Immediately, I'm drawn to the somber mood and the imposing scale of that book. It feels almost like a character in itself. Curator: Absolutely. The presence of the book underscores the power dynamics at play, highlighting the judge's role within a very specific social and legal framework. Editor: The book seems to symbolize knowledge, authority, and perhaps even burden – the weight of responsibility. The negative exposure amplifies the surreal feeling... Curator: And given that this image resides within an academic institution, one might consider what role images such as these play in shaping legal discourse. Editor: It’s as if the image itself is a historical document, waiting to be interpreted. Thank you. Curator: A potent reminder of art's capacity to engage with power structures. It's been a pleasure.