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Hidden gems: the story of Lady Justice

From the region, for the region

Maastricht University takes care of many distinctive buildings and art works that we all know. By giving them a new purpose, we preserve these icons and give them a new meaning, making them the vibrant heart of a bustling city. 

Did you know that these buildings and art works also provide access to various special places and stories? Let yourself be surprised and join us in this series exploring the hidden gems of the university and the city of Maastricht.

High up in the central hall of the LAW building at Bouillonstraat 1-3, stands the larger-than-life statue of Lady Justice. And although blindfolded, she must be pleased to see so many students and staff.

This statue is by Maastricht sculptor Charles Vos. He came from an artistic family of sculptors and painters and lived from 1888-1954. During that time, sculpture changed from a craft to a freer, more expressive art form. This is certainly reflected in his religious and profane works. The Maastricht Moowswief on the Markt, symbol of the Maastricht carnival, is also by Charles Vos and is said to be the last sculpture by this talented artist.

Text continues below the photo.

Vrouwe Justitia

Back to Bouillonstraat, to Lady Justice. She’s actually the odd lady out in the law school. In fact, she was sculpted in 1926 for the Palace of Justice on the Minderbroedersberg, where Maastricht University's administration building is now located. The sculpture was to be placed high above the entrance of the Minderbroedersberg, hence its format and dimension. After Maastricht University took over ownership of the building (1999), Lady Justice had to make way for a window and moved to the law faculty. Incidentally, that window never came.

Text: Gido Boere and Evert van Zoeren
Photography: Joris Hilterman

More information?
Do you have any questions, would you like to know more or do you want to take a look yourself? Please send an e-mail to: webred-um@maastrichtuniversity.nl

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