Wisdom of the Law

Wisdom of the Law

Raymond Kaskey, 1998

Wisdom of the Law by Raymond Kaskey is located at the Ronald Reagan Federal Building and US Courthouse in Santa Ana. As visitors arrive at the courthouse, two figures encourage them to consider the power and wisdom of the law. Sculpted in bronze and mounted on travertine bases, the figures serve as symbolic guardians of the people, the building, and the proceedings within it.

In choosing classical male and female figures to embody the concepts of justice and law, Raymond Kaskey honors two long-cherished traditions. The first is a heritage of civic sculpture that is both monumental in scale and allegorical in function, representing in concrete form the values and virtues of society. The second is the historical role of the courts in defining and protecting our communities.

The male figure, “Power of the Law,” stands for the law’s authority and majesty. He holds a sword in front of him, a traditional symbol of strength and valor, qualities that ensure respect of the law. At his feet, the federal eagle battles a snake, carrying on the eternal struggle between good and evil.

The female figure, “Wisdom of the Law,” carries a large open book emblazoned with the opening words of the Constitution. The book represents the study and contemplation of the law and the pondering of judgment. An owl, recognized as an emblem of wisdom, accompanies her.

Taken together, these two figures proclaim the courthouse as a place of judgment and enforcement, two roles of the courts that are required for the acheivement of justice.