From the exhibition
Munsey's Magazine, February 1908
· February 1908

: # "The Art Treasures of the United States Capitol"
This nonfiction article by Abby G. Baker surveys the decorative and artistic features of the U.S. Capitol building. Baker describes recent renovations overseen by Superintendent Elliott Woods, including exterior cleaning, interior repainting, and carpet installation across four hundred thirty rooms. The article catalogs sculptural and mural work, discussing early Italian sculptors like Franzoni and Causici, and later artists including Constantino Brumidi, who decorated the dome's interior with a fresco depicting Washington's beatification. Baker examines the Rotunda's eight large historical paintings—four by Trumbull from Revolutionary scenes and four others of questionable merit—and details notable statuary by Powers, d'Angers, and others. She discusses the Columbus doors by Randolph Rogers and bronze doors by Thomas Crawford, and critiques various works' artistic merits and placements throughout the Capitol.
Public domain (pre-1929), restored and presented by comicbooks.com public-domain