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South Wing – State Senate – Pediment by Adolph Alexander Weinman “Virtues and Traits of Character” -- The central figure in the group symbolizes Wisdom and follows the ancient usage of representing that virtue by a female figure. Thought and reflection are inseparable attributes of wisdom, if, indeed, they are not the material that develop into wisdom. The artist represents thought by the winged skull in the left hand of Wisdom and reflection by the mirror in her right. Back of the central figure is a mass of foliage, suggesting the value of wide knowledge in the exercise of wisdom. Immediately to the right is a standing figure, holding in the left hand an equilateral triangle which appropriately represents equity. The corresponding figure on the left carries a square signifying rectitude. On the right are three seated figures, symbolizing executive power, meditation, and prudence in the order given. Prudence is shown with a scroll in her right hand and resting on a casket of documents, indicating the need for knowledge of what has been attempted heretofore and the result accomplished. Success depends upon the use made of the experience of others, as well as that of our own. To the left are also three figures in similar attitude to those on the right and represent the calmness and caution of diplomacy, the earnestness of eloquence, and the clear vision of progress. The winged ball in the left hand of the figure on the extreme left of the group symbolizes Progress.