The Supreme Court Building has two flagpoles located symmetrically on the front plaza. At seventy-five feet high, each pole
assembly includes an eight-tiered bronze base, a fluted pole, and an American eagle as the crowning ornamentation.
The bases of the flagpoles have elaborate decoration, featuring many elements of classical design such as anthemia, egg and dart, acanthus leaves, swags, shields and medallions. The fifth tier of the base features four kneeling cherubs. One cherub holds the scales of justice and a sword, symbolizing authority. Another holds a book, symbolizing learning. The next holds the mask and torch, symbolizing light removing the mask of untruth. The last cherub holds a pen and mace, symbolizing legislation. Between the cherubs are swags with four medallions above them. Portrayed in the medallions are the four elements: air is represented by an eagle, water by a fish, earth by a lion’s head, and fire by a tripod of flame.
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