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Beloved Woman of Justice by Audrey Flack
Photo CreditPhoto courtesy of McKay Lodge Fine Arts Conservation Laboratory, Inc.
Beloved Woman of Justice
Photo CreditPhoto courtesy of McKay Lodge Fine Arts Conservation Laboratory, Inc.

Beloved Woman of Justice

Artist
Year2000
Classification sculpture
Medium patinated and gilded bronze
Dimensionscast bronze sculpture height: 42 in. (106.7 cm)
marble base height: 44 in. (111.8 cm)
Credits Commissioned through the Art in Architecture Program
Fine Arts Collection
U.S. General Services Administration
Location
  • Audrey Flack's monumental and heroic "Beloved Woman of Justice" was created for the Howard H. Baker Jr. U.S. Courthouse in Knoxville.  The title of the sculpture refers to a particular group of highly esteemed women in traditional Cherokee society. In each village, a very special elder woman was known as the beloved woman.  The beloved woman spoke in local and national councils on all subjects of state. This woman had the ability to argue and persuade tribal members in powerful matters, particularly in rendering justice.  She assisted in judicial decisions concerning marriage disputes and divorce, real estate inheritance disputes, and in determining clan justice in cases of accidental death and murder.  "Beloved Woman of Justice" invites the viewer to contemplate and reflect on the meaning of the law and our judicial system.  In the words of the artist, "It will encourage looking into the inner self ... for truth."  The feathers hidden in the folds of the Greek drapery refer to Knoxville's early trade with Native Americans.  The star and eagle in the headdress are symbolic of the United States and the ideas of justice, righteousness, and integrity.  The expression of the figure's face is meditative, pensive, and thoughtful, and is meant to inspire feelings of solace and reassurance.  The facial features of the sculpture are meant to reflect broad and diverse groups of people and represent the impartiality of the Courts.