Justice, from the series "Eight Virtues (seated)" early 20th century (original from c.1540-46)

Editor: This bronze roundel depicts Justice, one of the Eight Virtues, artist unknown. The figure holds scales and a sword. I'm struck by how small and self-contained it is. What narratives do you see emerging from this piece? Curator: Given the historical context, I see a potent commentary on power dynamics. Notice how Justice is visually presented - with both the scales and the sword? Editor: Yes, I see that. Curator: What does it suggest about who gets to decide what’s “just”, and whose voices are centered in the narrative? What does "justice" mean when it's not universally applied? Editor: That’s a powerful question. It makes me think about how perceptions of justice shift over time. Curator: Exactly. This artwork prompts us to consider the historical construction and social implications of justice itself.