Artwork
The Triumph of Justice and Truth
The Triumph of Justice and Truth is a print by the Impressionist artist Nicolas-François Chifflart. It dates from 1865 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.
- Accession no.
- 2023.18.2
About this work
Overview
François‑Nicolas Chifflart’s print The Triumph of Justice and Truth (1865) belongs to his Improvisations on Copper series, a group of small‑scale works that explore the expressive possibilities of direct drawing on copper. The image presents two winged figures, one armored, the other robed, hovering above a turbulent, shadowy crowd, embodying an allegorical confrontation between order and chaos.
Subject & Meaning
The armored figure, equipped with a sword and scales, symbolizes the force of justice, while the robed figure, gesturing upward, represents truth guiding the way. Their elevated position above the dark, swirling masses suggests a moral ascent, inviting viewers to contemplate the triumph of ethical principles over disorder.
Technique & Style
Chifflart worked directly on prepared copper plates, treating the metal as a sketch surface. This approach yields spontaneous, fluid lines that combine crisp detail with softened, smoky transitions reminiscent of sfumato. The intimate size of the print encourages close inspection, allowing the viewer to experience the subtle interplay of light, shadow, and texture.
History & Provenance
Created in 1865 during the mid‑nineteenth‑century French etching revival, the work reflects Chifflart’s role in revitalising printmaking as a medium for personal expression. The Improvisations on Copper series was circulated among collectors and fellow artists, contributing to the broader movement that emphasized artistic freedom and technical experimentation.
Artist & collection
Artist
Nicolas-François Chifflart (1825–1901) was a French artist, born in Saint-Omer.
