Majesty of the Law

Standing over twelve feet high, Majesty of the Law and its companion, Spirit of Justice, were sculpted by Carl Paul Jennewein in 1936 for the Great Hall of the U.S. Department of Justice building in Washington, D.C. The sculptor represents the concept of Law as a heroic male figure ascending steadily on uneven stones. He raises his left hand in triumph while holding a cluster of oak branches and arrows in his right fist. Arrows traditionally represent strength and recall the symbol of the fasces, which was a bundle of rods that signified power and authority in Ancient Rome.  Oak leaves symbolize strength, endurance, and knowledge. A few feet away, his counterpart, Spirit of Justice is represented as a woman. At this time, artists often depicted justice as a woman and law as a man.

The Roman Bronze Works in New York City cast the two sculptures, using small models created by Jennewein. Many sculptures in the building were cast in aluminum instead of bronze. A much lighter, softer metal than bronze, aluminum’s cost dropped in the 1930s, making it a more attractive material for architects and sculptors.

Located in a prominent position in the Great Hall, the two sculptures have witnessed important speeches and ceremonies over the decades. Due to their partial nudity, they were covered with heavy blue drapes in 2002 under Attorney General John D. Ashcroft. In 2005, the coverings were removed under Assistant Attorney General Paul Corts and Attorney General Alberto R. Gonzales.