Administered by State of Nebraska Head Historical Architect 1445 K Street Lincoln Nebraska 68508
Located Nebraska State Capitol 1445 K Street North Portal entrance Lincoln Nebraska
Date:
Ca. 1922-1926
Notes:
Harm, Greg, 2011.
(Just below relief:) THE . SALVATION / OF . THE . STATE . IS / WATCHFULNESS / IN . THE . CITIZEN
The information provided about this artwork was compiled as part of the Smithsonian American Art Museum's Inventories of American Painting and Sculpture database, designed to provide descriptive and location information on artworks by American artists in public and private collections worldwide.
Summary:
The rectangular relief over the north entrance depicts a pioneer family walking beside a covered wagon drawn by oxen and guided by a scout. The mother carries an infant in her arms and the father walks beside her carrying a rifle under his right arm. Ahead of them walks an elderly man holding a water-finder's wand and a young man carrying a basket of seed on his shoulder. The figures represent four generations traveling westward, each figure carrying something needed in their new home. An eagle flies over the oxen to symbolize the destiny of westward expansion. Walking just ahead of the oxen is a dog, and behind the dog is a rising or setting sun visible on the horizon. The stone relief carved in situ is adorned with gold leaf across the background. The guide leading the group is a profile portrait of William F. Cody, also known as Buffalo Bill.
Topic:
History--United States--Westward Expansion Search this
