There Can Be No Peace Without Justice

“Justice and Peace,” painted by Daniel Huntington sometime between 1886 and 1891. I stumbled across this painting randomly and was immediately struck by it. The man and woman appear to be in harmony by the way they hold each other, but their dress and demeanor are so different. I did not understand what they were supposed to represent at first, and then I read the title and it all made sense. To me, the painting is an interesting philosophical reminder that while justice isn’t always the most pleasant, it ultimately is necessary for the peace and flourishing of a society.

By the way, apparently the latin on the bottom of the throne reads: Iustitia et Pax Osculatae Sunt ("Justice and Peace Have Kissed").

Here’s a little more on the artist, Daniel Huntington:
Daniel Huntington (1816–1906) was a leading American painter who began his career in the Hudson River School, known for its romantic landscapes. Although he started with historical and allegorical subjects, he eventually became best known for his refined and dignified portraits of prominent Americans, including politicians, clergy, and writers. Over his long career, he completed more than a thousand works. Huntington also held key positions in the art world, serving as president of the National Academy of Design and helping to shape the early direction of the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York.

Thanks for watching and learning about this beautiful art piece with me ❤️