Justice

"Justice" by Albrecht Dürer, created in 1499, is a highly significant early work demonstrating the artist's burgeoning mastery of the engraving medium. Produced on the cusp of the 16th century, this print reflects the intellectual and artistic fervor of the German Northern Renaissance. Dürer’s choice of the print medium—specifically engraving on copper—allowed for the widespread dissemination of his classical and allegorical subjects across Europe, cementing his reputation as a leading graphic artist of his era.

The work features the Roman goddess Iustitia, the personification of justice and impartiality. She stands resolutely, presenting the viewer with a long, punitive Sword in one hand, while the crucial Scales of evidence hang balanced in the other. These tools define her role, ensuring both retribution and fairness. The allegorical figure is often accompanied by flanking Lions, symbolizing the fortitude and powerful enforcement necessary for judgment. Dürer’s intricate linear work captures the textures of the drapery and the precision of the iconic tools, showcasing the technical brilliance achievable through the precise cuts of the burin.

This particular impression of the work is held in the prestigious collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art. As one of Dürer's seminal prints, the piece demonstrates his innovative approach to printmaking, elevating the classification from simple reproduction to high art. Its enduring quality and historical significance mean that many examples of this important work are available through public domain resources, ensuring continued global access to the output of this pivotal German master.