The picture on the seal of Virginia's deep blue flag is portraying the state motto - Sic Semper Tyrannis - or, Thus Ever to Tyrants, in plain English. This is what always happens to unjust rulers. At the time of it's flag design in 1776, Virginia and other colonies were fighting for independence from England, who to them were tyrants. The woman, virtue, represents Virginia. The man holds a whip and chain, indicating he is a tyrant. They have fought a battle, and the tyrant lies on the ground defeated, his fallen crown nearby.