August 12, 2005

Court Rules Sculpture Is Constitutional

By JAMIE SCHUMAN

Washburn University did not violate the U.S. Constitution in placing a sculpture that some deemed anti-Catholic on its campus, a federal appeals court ruled last month.

The sculpture, a bronze bust called "Holier Than Thou," depicts a scowling Roman Catholic clergyman whose headgear, some viewers say, resembles a penis. Washburn, in Topeka, Kan., displayed the piece during the 2003-4 academic year after local volunteers selected it for the university's annual outdoor art

Digital or Print Subscription

Web Pass

Already have an account? Log In Now.