Synopses & Reviews
An imposing symbol, Montana's capitol reflects the values and aspirations of the Treasure State's founders. Its neoclassical design echoes the architecture of early Greece and Rome, while the murals and statues that embellish the building's grand interior spaces commemorate important events and people in the state's history.
In honor of the Capitol's centennial, the building's history is described--starting with its predecessors in Virginia City and Bannack and tracing the move of the capital to Helena and the building's construction one hundred years ago. A lively essay explains why the Capitol looks the way it does today and the significance of the building to Montana's self-representation.
The artwork of the Capitol is placed into the context of American art and provides an interpretation of the murals will enrich any visitor's experience.
Capitol's statuary is discussed, giving readers the background they need to understand who these people were Montanans memorialized there in bronze and marble.
Lavishly illustrated, this book provides a long overdue tribute to this crown jewel of Montana architecture and gives readers a fresh appreciation for this "Temple of Democracy."
Review
"
Montana's State Capitol: The People's House brings to life the colorful
history and incredible beauty of our Capitol. After reading these
pages, you will know why Montanans treasure this building."
--Mike Cooney, former Secretary of State and Chairman of the Capitol Restoration Commission
Review
"How fortunate we are that our forefathers created for us one of the most
beautiful capitols in the United States. And how fortunate we are also to be
able to read about this grand building in Montana's State Capitol. This is a
magnificent and beautiful book. Congratulations and thank you to all who
contributed to its creation."
--Betty Babcock, former First Lady of Montana and Chairwoman of the Montana Capitol Restoration Foundation
Synopsis
An imposing symbol, Montana's Capitol reflects the values and aspirations of the Treasure State's founders. Its neoclassical design echoes the architecture of early Greece and Rome, while the murals and statues that embellish the building's grand interior spaces commemorate important events and people in the state's history.Lavishly illustrated with both historic and modern photographs, Montana's State Capitol: The People's House provides a long overdue tribute to the crown jewel of Montana architecture. Essays explore the building of the Capitol and the creation of the sculpture and murals that adorn its halls - murals that include one of artist Charles M. Russel's most admired works. Published to honor the building on its centennial anniversary, Montana's State Capitol will provide readers with a fresh appreciation for this "Temple of Democracy." (8 1/2 x 11, 112 pages, color photos, b&w photos)
Synopsis
Lavishly illustrated with both historic and modern photographs, this book provides a long overdue tribute to this crown jewel of Montana architecture.
About the Author
Patricia M. Burnham is an art historian.
Kirby Lambert is Montana Historical Society's Curator of the Collections.
Susan R. Near is Montana Historical Society's director of Museum Services.
Table of Contents
· The History
· Building the Capitol, by Kirby Lambert
· The Art
· The Paintings, by Patricia M. Burnham
· The Sculpture, by Susan R. Near
· List of Illustrations
· Maps showing the locations of the art
· Selected Bibliography
· Index