Along the center of the ceiling of the Members of Congress Reading Room are panels painted by Carl Gutherz. Each panel represents civilization through The Spectrum of Light. America, or Columbia, supports the shield of the United States; her liberty cap is inscribed "1876." The color was chosen by the artist because violet results from the union of the American colors, red, white, and blue. The cherubs in the corners represents Suffrage, Justice, Liberty and Equality.

The Library of Congress was established by an act of Congress in 1800 when President John Adams signed a bill providing for the transfer of the seat of government from Philadelphia to the new capital city of Washington. The legislation described a reference library for Congress only, containing "such books as may be necessary for the use of Congress - and for putting up a suitable apartment for containing them therein...."

Carol Highsmith, the distinguished photographer, has comprehensively photographed the interior of the Thomas Jefferson building and along with much of her other work, has donated them to the Library of Congress.

Medium : 1 color tiff file

Created/Published : 2007

Creator : Carol Highsmith, photographer, 1946 -

Forms part of the Carol Highsmith Archive and is housed in the Prints and Photographs Division of the Library of Congress

Availability: Special Order: Ships in 3-4 weeks

Product #: highsm02054