Rotunda in relief

by Katie Klingsporn February 14, 2020February 13, 2020

Looking up into the newly restored Capitol Rotunda. (Mike Vanata)

Lawmakers hustled to pass bills and forge a balanced budget as the 65th Wyoming Legislature gathered in the newly restored State Capitol this week.

But some legislators and political observers may have also slowed down to take in the building’s new veneer and ornate interior — including taking a moment to gaze up into the newly renovated rotunda.

As part of an extensive four-year rehabilitation project, the 1888 trompe l’oeil pattern in the rotunda was meticulously restored. Trompe l’oeil means “fools the eye”; the style of painting creates the illusion that the depicted objects are three-dimensional.

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The rotunda renovation also included the installation of four bronze sculptures by the renowned Mexican artist Delissalde. “The Four Sisters” are feminine allegories representing truth, justice, courage and hope.

All told, the exhaustive project, which topped $300 million, rebuilt entire wings, re-gilded the dome, replaced a central utility plant and exposed and polished up many historic features.

Katie Klingsporn

Katie Klingsporn reports on outdoor recreation, public lands, education and general news for WyoFile. She’s been a journalist and editor covering the American West for 20 years. Her freelance work has... More by Katie Klingsporn

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