Supreme Court of the United States

Today at the Court - Saturday, Aug 24, 2024


  • The Supreme Court Building is closed on weekends and federal holidays.
  • Courtroom Lectures available within the next 30 days.
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Did You Know...

Who designed the West Pediment?


A native of San Francisco, California, Robert Aitken (1878-1949) studied sculpture in Paris before settling in New York City, where he became one of the top American sculptors of the early 20th century. Cass Gilbert, the architect of the Supreme Court Building, selected Aitken to design the West Pediment writing, “I expect a masterpiece from you!” He also expressed his wish that it be a “composition...worthy of the great Supreme Court – stately, serene, calm, well balanced and yet vital and interesting.” Aitken met this lofty goal, and did so using the faces of actual people in his work, including himself!

 

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The West Façade of the Supreme Court Building, crowned by Aitken’s tympanum sculpture.
The West Façade of the Supreme Court Building, crowned by Aitken’s tympanum sculpture.
Fred Schilling, Collection of the Supreme Court of the United States
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Aitken’s self-portrait as one of four figures symbolizing Council.
Aitken’s self-portrait as one of four figures symbolizing Council.
Steve Petteway, Collection of the Supreme Court of the United States
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SUPREME COURT OF THE UNITED STATES 1 First Street, NE Washington, DC 20543