| In this cartoon, grand in scale yet subdued in tone, a cherub, representing new
beginnings, ties an olive branch of peace around his sheathed sword. His foot
rests on the shield of the United States, while behind him perch two doves of
peace, perhaps symbolizing reconciliation between the Democratic and Republican
parties or the North and South. On the ground in front of them lie the scales of
justice, which were used to judge the disputed election returns. Propped up is
Caduceus, a rod carried by Roman officers when they negotiated peace terms. In
mythology, it became the staff of Mercury (Hermes), messenger to the gods. On
the left, a snake slithers under the rocks (foreground), as buzzards follow the
retreating angel of death and the dogs of war. In the background, the haze
dissipates to reveal the dome of the Capitol building, signifying the permanence
of the republic. |
Timeline
