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Activity Booklet


Symbols of Justice

Justice  is one of the most recognized symbols in the architecture of the Supreme Court Building. Portraying Justice  as a female figure dates back to ancient mythology. Over time, Justice  became associated with scales to represent impartiality and a sword to symbolize power. While Justice  is frequently depicted wearing a blindfold, a female figure of Justice  without a blindfold appears in one of the four sculpted frieze panels found inside the Courtroom.

In the West Wall Frieze, Justice  is the focus of the story of the battle of “Good vs. Evil.” Notice how she rests her hand atop the hilt (handle) of her sword—what do you think Justice  is ready to do? Hint: Follow her gaze all the way to the right.

West Frieze

 


Click to play below: To re-create the West Wall Frieze, drag the puzzle pieces into their correct positions.

Symbols of Justice Image

 




Unless otherwise noted, all images are from the Collection of the Supreme Court of the United States.

 

SUPREME COURT OF THE UNITED STATES 1 First Street, NE Washington, DC 20543