La Justice protégeant l'Innocence, Stone sculpture in Nantes, France.
This neoclassical stone sculpture by Étienne-Édouard Suc depicts Justice protecting Innocence, positioned prominently on the facade of the former courthouse building with detailed allegorical figures carved in relief.
Created in 1852 during the construction of Nantes' courthouse, this sculpture has witnessed over 170 years of judicial history including notable trials and the building's transformation into a luxury hotel.
The work represents the fundamental French legal principle of protecting the innocent, embodying 19th-century artistic traditions that combined classical symbolism with contemporary social values in public architecture.
Visitors can view the sculpture from the Place Aristide-Briand while exploring the former courthouse, now operating as the Radisson Blu Hotel with 142 rooms and conference facilities.
The sculpture remains the only original artistic element preserved on the building's exterior after the courthouse ceased operations in 2000 and underwent complete interior renovation for hospitality use.
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