Minnesota State Capitol.
Minnesota State Capitol.

Art

Architect Cass Gilbert designed the architecture of the Minnesota State Capitol in a Beaux Arts style, influenced by the very popular 1893 World’s Columbian Exposition in Chicago. He wanted the fine art to be as magnificent as the architecture.

Like the Exposition designers, Gilbert chose art that used Classical symbolism to inspire and educate visitors. He hand-picked the “great painters and sculptors of the present day,” commented on their sketches, and oversaw all decisions related to the art.

Gilbert commissioned approximately 60 works of art totaling about $300,000, or 7 percent of the $4.5 million project budget. Today, visitors can explore more than 150 stunning works of decorative and fine art throughout the building.

Overview of significant art in the Minnesota State Capitol

Six Civil War paintings in the Governor’s Reception Room and anteroom
Overview of art in the Minnesota State Capitol, emphasizing its historical significance.

Dramatic murals in the Senate, House and Supreme Court chambers
Decorative stencils and murals showcasing artistic craftsmanship in the Capitol.

Lunettes, paintings, and stencil work throughout the staircases, rotunda, and walls and ceilings
Dramatic murals and decor in the Rathskeller Café, showcasing artistic designs and historical themes.

The Rathskeller Café with vaulted ceilings painted with grape vines, flowers, mythical birds, and German mottos
Art displays including statues of political and civic leaders in the Minnesota Capitol.

Statues of Minnesota political and civic leaders
Portraits of Minnesota's governors, showcasing state leadership throughout history.

Portraits of each governor
Art section of the Learn page at the Minnesota Historical Society

A display of battle flags from Minnesota’s role in the Spanish American and Civil Wars
Visual overview of art installations at the Minnesota State Capitol

A display of battle flags from Minnesota’s role in the Spanish American and Civil Wars

Minnesota State Capitol

75 Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Blvd St. Paul, MN 55155

651-296-2881 | statecapitol@mnhs.org