Justice or Mercy or Both

 

This is the centerpiece of the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception.  It is a mosaic of Christ in Majesty.

The two friends I went to the Rosary Pilgrimage at the Basilica, had an argument over it.  One loved it and thought it depicted Christ in Judgement.  My other friend thought it was a terrible depiction of Jesus because He looked angry.

We searched Google and found out that the mosaic shows both the Justice of Christ and His mercy.  

The mosaic is not only a picture of Christ’s power and might; it also portrays His profound mercy and sacrifice. While one of His eyebrows is raised in judgment, the other is relaxed, revealing his mercy and kindness to His children. Additionally, de Rosen’s design shows Christ on a rainbow throne, a symbol of pardon and reconciliation, harkening to the Lord’s promise to Noah in the Old Testament. His right shoulder is bare to show His wounded side, demonstrating His humanity and the blood of His sacrifice.

 In fact, put your thumb over half of Jesus' face.  One side is softer than the other. You'll see Christ honored throughout the basilica, but this mosaic is the crowning piece.