May 3, 2018
We experienced two firsts in the Oklahoma State Capitol: We loved that the Legislature was in session and we were able to watch proceedings in both chambers. We were disappointed that, because the Capitol was undergoing significant renovations, certain areas were not accessible. In addition, much of the art that usually hangs in the building had been removed during construction.
The Capitol was completed in 1917, except for the dome. Although the blueprints specified a dome and the structure was built to support one, funds were not made available to construct the dome until 2002.
Before the dome was added, the ceiling was painted to resemble one.
Broad view of the interior of the dome as built in 2002. The color scheme was inspired by the state wildflower, gaillardia or Indian Blanket.
This ring is the beginning of the new dome and acknowledges private contributions of one million dollars or more toward the $22 million cost of constructing the dome.
This painting in the Rotunda is “Pro Patria,” meaning “for the fatherland”. It was created in 1927 in memory and honor of the Oklahomans who served in World War I.
“Pro Patria”
Here are a few other pieces of art in the Rotunda.
“Indian Immigration” is one of four murals created in 1970 to depict Oklahoma’s history from 1541-1906. Between 1820 and 1885, 67 Native American tribes were forced into Oklahoma where nomadic hunters already lived.
“Flight of Spirit” features five prima ballerinas from four Oklahoma tribes mingled with elements of their heritage.
This is a nine-foot tall edition of the 22-foot 9-inch sculpture that tops the Capitol dome.
Governor’s Office
“Blue Room” used by the governor for receptions, bill signings, and other official ceremonies.
Senate entrance
Pieces of these stained glass windows in the Senate were uncovered during a 1993 restoration. The firm that made the originals was able to repair and replicate them from the 1917 paperwork.
The Senate voted on a bill while we watched from the gallery.
We assume this stack of paper is information for the Senators.
The Senate recognized a championship basketball team.
The House of Representatives in session.
Press gallery in the House
A 1999 restoration of the House chamber required 140 gallons of paint, including 20 of gold.
The guidebook for the Capitol notes that the Supreme Court is one of the most beautiful of the Capitol’s 650 rooms. Unfortunately, the door was locked.
Columbia holds the scale of justice in the Oklahoma state seal. A farmer and a native stand equally on either side. Seals of the Five Civilized Tribes (Cherokee, Chickasaw, Choctaw, Creek, and Seminole) are in the points of the large star. The 45 smaller stars represent the states that entered the U.S. before Oklahoma.
2 Comments
Susan · May 20, 2018 at 1:04 pm
This was quite beautiful
Laura · May 21, 2018 at 6:51 am
Loved this presentation! The stained glass restoration is amazing.