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The building is a mixture of Gothic, Flemish and Renaissance elements, typical of the eclectic style of late nineteenth century architecture. The sculpture is located around and merged with the main architectural features including the gables and the entrance arch and includes a number of statues. The figure of Queen Victoria by Harry Bates is central. She is shown in full regalia, holding an orb with a winged Victory and sceptre, and is seated like a judge – alluding to the certainty of justice to be found in a British court of law. At her feet, this national justice is endorsed by the figure of Saint George, patron saint of England, who slays the dragon in obvious reference to Good conquering Evil. On either side in the spandrels are figures personifying Patience, Mercy, Truth and Temperance, all attributes of Justice. The theme is expanded above the portal arch where, to both sides of the clock face, appear relief symbols of Time and Eternity in reference to the proverb 'VERITAS FILA TEMPERIS', (Truth is the daughter of Time).
Title
Victoria Law Courts
Date
1886–1891
Medium
red terracotta
Accession number
B4_RA_S032
Work type
Statue
Work status
extant
Listing status
Grade I (England and Wales)
Listing date
21/01/70
