kids.clerk.house.gov Quote: “Constantino Brumidi painted The Apotheosis of Washington on the ceiling of the Rotunda, the center of the Capitol, in 1865. He used a fresco technique in which water-based paints are applied to freshly spread plaster.
The subjects shown in the dome mix individuals from American history, gods of Roman mythology and personifications—abstract concepts illustrated as a person. This mixture of history and myth was a common way to show abstract ideas in art in the 19th century, and would have been easily grasped by viewers at the time.
The center of the painting shows George Washington rising into the heavens in glory. Female personifications of Liberty and Victory or Fame are at his sides. Thirteen maidens, symbolizing the thirteen original states, circle the three central figures. The groups around the perimeter of the main scene illustrate important aspects of America, and tell the viewer what the nation prided itself in during the 19th century. Innovation and industry are important recurring themes.” End Quote
Reference: http://kids.clerk.house.gov/high-school/lesson.html?intID=40
Reference: http://www.aoc.gov/capitol-hill/other-paintings-and-murals/apotheosis-Washington
