To
see more of "Lady Justice" click her picture.This is a very special and unique area of our store, where invited artists can exhibit with full insurance on all works. Currently you can talk with our sculpture artist in residence, Mr. Russell Banks, as he works (along with Daniel Niebauer and other members of our staff) on a major restoration with a local contract company. This statue is from the top of the Cameron County Courthouse in Emporium, Pennsylvania.
The statue of "Lady Justice" is modeled after the Titaness Themis (Goddess of Justice and Fairness). It is in the middle of major reconstruction of the interior core and supports as well as repairs to patch the exterior shell, after being struck by lightning. It was once believed to be made by artists outside of Jamestown, New York. It was made by the process of "tin knocking," which is the hammering of metal into the carved sections of a tree trunk. The statue was created in the American Neoclassic style, prior to the Civil War. It is modeled in the Greek Hellenic style, characterized by the masculine features and blockiness, showing very angular hands, arms and pose, almost as if carved in stone.
What makes this particular statue very rare and a true "American artifact," is that it was completed without the eyes blindfolded, one of only six known in the United States. It is also extremely unusual because of its very intricate folds, depth of hammering and the very detailed and ornate panels of the robe. When completed she will stand approximately 11 feet, 6 inches tall. She will be covered in gold leaf after the repairs are finished. The left hand will be recast and the damaged balances, sword and sword hilt will be replaced.
To
see more of "Lady Justice" click her picture.
Questions and comments: e-mail us