Existing comment:
Decoding a Relief Portrait:
Inscriptions:
Saint-Gaudens was interested in experimenting with calligraphy and he often included an inscription that spoke to the sitter's character or personality. Typically, he used Roman-style lettering punctuated by bullets. Here, a Latin inscription reads "MAJOR HAEREDITAS VENIT A JURE ET LEGIBUS" meaning "a richer heritage comes from law and precepts." Justice Gray was an early adoptee of the case-study method and relied on legal precedents (stare decisis, "let the decision stand") in his approach to the law. Given that this methodology had such a profound influence on Gray's work, the inscription selection is very fitting.
Colored Patinas and Wax:
Saint-Gaudens used patinas and wax to complement an image or evoke a mood. They vary greatly and include such colors as maroon, green, gold, silver, blue-gray, and brown. During conservation treatment of the portrait, a dark blue and green wax was discovered to have been applied. It is unknown if this wax was intended by Saint-Gaudens or added at a later date, but this appearance has been preserved. |