“Stop to appreciate this detailed historical drawing of the U.S. Capitol Building. It offers a glimpse into how major landmarks were depicted for newspaper readers in the late 19th or early 20th century, highlighting architectural precision and national symbolism.”
This detailed ink and graphite drawing captures the imposing presence of the United States Capitol Building, likely intended as an illustration for the Weekly Times newspaper. The artist, James Henry Moser, carefully renders the iconic dome and portico, emphasizing the architectural grandeur of the structure. You can almost feel the weight and permanence of the building, a symbol of American democracy. The choice of pen and ink allows for crisp lines and fine detail, giving the impression of a precise, almost documentary, observation. Though undated, the style suggests a period when such architectural renderings were common in illustrated publications, providing readers with visual news of important landmarks and events.
- Artist
- James Henry Moser
- Medium
- Pen and black ink, graphite on paper
- Location
- Cooper Hewitt, Smithsonian Design Museum
- Dimensions
- 13 × 25.1 cm (5 1/8 × 9 7/8 in.)
What to Notice
Five details hide in plain sight. Here’s where to look.
The intricate shading on the dome, created by numerous fine lines.
The tiny figures on the steps, giving a sense of scale to the building.
The delicate graphite underdrawing still visible beneath some ink lines.
The flags flying, adding a touch of patriotic detail.
1 more detail is waiting.
See all 5 in Art Whisper →Stand in front of it and listen
The full narration walks you through The Capitol in Washington, D.C., for the Weekly Times — the story behind it, the details most visitors miss, and why it matters. Free in the Art Whisper app.
James Henry Moser
1854–1913 · CanadaJames Henry Moser was a Canadian painter whose career spanned the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
Further Works by Moser
Sunset, Mount McIntyre
1907 · Smithsonian American Art Museum
A Bridge, Design for Washington Board of Trade Dinner, May 13, 1908
Cooper Hewitt, Smithsonian Design Museum
Half-tone Engraving: How to Obtain a Patent, Copp & Co. Patent Attorneys, Washington, D.C.
Cooper Hewitt, Smithsonian Design Museum
On Woodward's Farm
Cooper Hewitt, Smithsonian Design Museum
Shipyard and Pier
Cooper Hewitt, Smithsonian Design Museum
Woodland Camp
Cooper Hewitt, Smithsonian Design Museum
Self-Portrait
1887 · Smithsonian American Art Museum