Constitutional Court 2

CCAC #: 0242
Artwork title: Constitutional Court 2
Artist(s): Carole Smollan
Year made: 1995
Artwork type: Sculpture or object
Medium: Ceramic
Dimensions (mm): 820 x 335 x 85
Artwork series: Constitutional Court
Source: Donated by artist
Installation type: Movable artwork
Current location: In storage
Signage:

Crowning the work is the emblem of the Constitutional Court, designed by Carolyn Parton, representing the founding idea of “justice under a tree.” Its branches shelter eleven human figures, symbolising the judges and the diversity of voices they uphold. The Y-shaped trunk echoes the vertical form of the South African flag, connecting the symbol directly to the nation.

The composition highlights unity and collective purpose. Clasped hands at the base indicate solidarity and a strong shared foundation. Above them, hands reaching upward suggest communal effort and aspiration. The circular tree motif reinforces ideas of growth, life, and the interconnectedness of people, reflecting the Constitutional Court’s commitment to an inclusive and participatory democracy.


CCAC 430644

Photographer: Ben Law-Viljoen
Photo copyright: CCT

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NOTE: The process of photographing artworks in the CCAC is underway - we are currently working to improve image quality and display on the CMS but have included internal reference photos for identification purposes in the interim.