Two exhibits are now on view in the HLS Library: “Centuries of Japanese Legal Tradition” and “Charles Hamilton Houston and the Harvard Law School.” Both exhibits are on display through January 15, 2021, weekdays 9 to 5 in the Caspersen Room, Langdell Hall.

Hongoku jōkisen no zu, or Commodore Perry’s “black ship”
Late 19th century, HOLLIS 99153854016303941
Centuries of Japanese Legal Tradition features rarely-seen treasures from the Japanese collection. Selected from over 300 items in the Library’s Historical & Special Collections, the exhibit features manuscripts, scrolls, and printed books dating from the twelfth through nineteenth centuries. Highlights include beautiful medieval scrolls and illustrated manuscripts which document legal transactions and customs.

Also on exhibit is “Charles Hamilton Houston and the Harvard Law School.” Known as “Mr. Civil Rights Lawyer,” Houston worked tirelessly to advance the cause of racial justice. The exhibit focuses on Houston’s time as a Harvard Law School student, and his lasting connection to HLS. Highlights include a full-sized portrait of Houston, and Houston’s signed copy of Black’s Law Dictionary on loan from Karolyne and Bryan A. Garner.
Take a break and come enjoy these exhibits. We hope to see you soon!