See the U.S. Capitol’s Rotunda Go From an Idea to an Icon

The Frieze of American History in the Rotunda of the United States Capitol, seen ca. 2011, contains a painted panorama depicting significant events in American history. The frieze's 19 scenes is the work of three artists: Constantino Brumidi, Filippo Constaggini and Allyn Cox.Architect of the Capitol
By TIME Photo
US Capitol Rotunda Washington
Drawings made in 1863 by the original architect of the Capitol Thomas U. Walter show the scaffolding plan for raising Statue of Freedom to top of dome (right) and details of rotunda coffers (left).Architect of the Capitol
US Capitol Rotunda Washington
A photo commissioned by engineer of the Capitol, Montgomery Meigs, circa 1860 shows the Capitol Rotunda with base of the scaffold used to build the dome. Architect of the Capitol
US Capitol Rotunda Washington
This image depicts Union troops in the rotunda with the scaffolding to build the new dome in 1861.Architect of the Capitol
US Capitol Rotunda Washington
A horse-drawn tram passes by the Capitol Building circa 1875. SSPL/Getty Images
US Capitol Rotunda Washington
Moveable scaffolding was used to support workmen while cleaning the Frieze at the rotunda in 1953.Architect of the Capitol
US Capitol Rotunda Washington
An aerial view from the visitors gallery inside the Capitol Rotunda shows the casket and catafalque of John F. Kennedy lying in state on Nov. 25, 1963.Architect of the Capitol
US Capitol Rotunda Washington
The Rotunda Apotheosis underwent restoration in August 1987.Architect of the Capitol
US Capitol Rotunda Washington
The Frieze of American History in the Rotunda of the United States Capitol, seen circa 2011, contains a painted panorama depicting significant events in American history. The frieze's 19 scenes is the work of three artists: Constantino Brumidi, Filippo Constaggini and Allyn Cox.Architect of the Capitol
US Capitol Rotunda Washington
The sandstone walls of the U.S. Capitol Rotunda rise 48 feet above the floor, circa 2011.Architect of the Capitol
US Capitol Rotunda Washington
A view from the statue of George Washington in the Rotunda of the U.S. Capitol Building, showing Constantino Brumidi's fresco The Apotheosis of Washington.Architect of the Capitol
US Capitol Rotunda Washington
The U.S. Capitol dome, encased in scaffolding, undergoing renovation in 2015.Mandel Ngan—AFP/Getty Images

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