Image: John Brown on his way to his execution

Description: Sic semper tyrannis ("thus always to tyrants") is the motto of the state of Virginia, whise flag is in the halo over Brown's head. "John Brown / Meeting the Slave Mother and her Child on the steps of Charlestown jail on his way to execution. The Artist has represented Capt. Brown regarding with a look of compassion, a Slave-mother and Child who obstructed the passage on his way to the Scaffold. Capt. Brown stooped and kissed the Child - then met his fate." Picture is intended to suggest a parallel with Christ on the way to his execution. Note Virgin Mary-like black mammy nursing a mulatto baby (see Children of the plantation). Currier and Ives print of 1863. Reproduces a lost painting by Louis Ransom, once held by Oberlin College
Usage Terms: Public domain