Abuse of Justice

Four allegorical figures process up a set of stairs, each representing the burdens of a legal dispute. Litigiosus carries a heavy purse, followed by Patience and Impudence straining under massive sacks, while the gaunt figure of Poverty follows behind. They are received by a jurist in academic robes and a hooded figure standing before a classical portico.

This work critiques the spiritual and financial corruption inherent in the legal system, a major theme in the Dutch Humanist tradition. It is deeply connected to the Neo-Stoic and spiritualist philosophy of Dirk Volckertszoon Coornhert, who influenced the Haarlem Mannerists to prioritize inner peace over external contention and worldly litigation.