Vermont State House at Sunset

by Angie Mossburg

Title

Vermont State House at Sunset

Artist

Angie Mossburg

Medium

Photograph - Photograph

Description

Approaching the Vermont State House, we were impressed by the beautiful sunset that was closing out the day. When we found the State House in Montpelier we were awed by the gold leaf dome shining brightly against the colorful clouds of the sunset. What a beautiful sight!

A little history about the building is that it is the focus of the Montpelier Historic District. The current state house was preceded by several others at the site. The most significant was that designed by Montpelier resident, Ammi B. Young, and built from 1833-38. Young designed a two story building with cruciform plan, low saucer dome, and portico, using locally quarried Barre granite for much of the building's exterior. In January of 1857, most of the building was destroyed by fire, including the timber interior and dome. Young's Doric portico survived as did some of the granite walls. These elements were incorporated into the current Vermont State House, which followed the plans of architect Thomas Silloway. Silloway's design called for the enlargement of the previous building by one bay at either end of the facade. His more elaborate high dome is sheathed with copper and covered with gold leaf. A statue of Ceres, the goddess of agriculture, stands atop the dome, symbolizing the importance of that industry to the state. Today, the statehouse stands virtually as completed in 1859 and includes many of the original furnishings, such as the Senate Chamber's 30 black walnut desks and chairs first used by the 30 members of the 1859 Vermont Senate. The building underwent a major restoration in the 1990s and continues to function as it was originally intended.

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Thankful for the features in the following Fine Art America Groups:

A Straight Horizon - Photography Only - 8/2022
Art And Photography Submissions T PKA - 8/2022
Camera Art - 10/22
COMMENT FOR COMMENT - C F C - 8/2022
Greatest of All Time - 8/2022
Hodge Podge - 8/2022
Lady Photographers and Artists - 8/2022
New FAA Uploads Limit One Per Day - 8/2022
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Uploaded

August 22nd, 2022

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