Socrates

Socrates is a bronze sculpture at Butler University that depicts the ancient philosopher as a portrait mask. The work is mounted on a limestone tablet and sits within a planted garden area surrounded by benches.

Artist W.V. Casey created this work in 1950 as a tribute to the classical thinker. The sculpture was later examined and documented in 1993 by the Smithsonian Institution's outdoor sculpture conservation program.

The inscriptions around the sculpture bring together thoughts from philosophers across different times and cultures. Visitors can see how ancient wisdom and modern ideas sit side by side on the surrounding benches.

The sculpture sits in an open garden area that is freely accessible and easy to reach on foot. It is best visited on days with good light to see the fine details of the bronze casting and surrounding inscriptions clearly.

The limestone tablet bears an engraved statement about philosophers becoming kings, which reflects the close link between wisdom and power. This idea connects classical thinking with questions of leadership that remain relevant today.

Location: Indianapolis

Inception: 1950s

Made from material: bronze

GPS coordinates: 39.84467,-86.17054

Latest update: December 10, 2025 20:09