Government Buildings:
Located in Washington, DC near the Capitol, this building has housed the Supreme Court since 1935. Initially, the Court met in the Merchants Exchange Building in New York City. When the capital moved to Philadelphia in 1790, the Court moved first into Independence Hall and later to City Hall. Then when the capital moved to its permanent location, Washington, DC, Congress lent the Court space in the new Capitol Building, until a permanent location was established for the Court. Sixteen marble columns may be found at the main entrance of the Court. Above the entrance to the Supreme Court Building appears engraved motto "Equal Justice Under Law", which was designed by Cass Gilbert. Above this motto is a group of nine figures, sculpted by Robert Aitken, representing Liberty Enthroned guarded by Order and Authority. They are:
On either side of the main steps are seated marble figures. These large statues are the work of sculptor James Earle Fraser. On the left is a female figure, the Contemplation of Justice. On the right is a male figure, the Guardian or Authority of Law. For more information, check out The Supreme Court Building (PDF, 21k) from the Supreme Court. |