James Buchanan Duke is depicted on the statue as larger than life, standing atop an octagonal plinth or pedestal of polished dark granite in front of Duke Chapel. He is holding a walking stick in his right hand and the ever-present cigar in his left hand.

James Buchanan Duke (1856–1925) was an American industrialist and philanthropist known for revolutionizing the tobacco industry, building a massive hydroelectric power empire, and founding Duke University.

Duke Chapel behind the James Duke Statue

James Duke Statue in front of Duke Chapel