Dimensions: Sheet: 1 1/2 x 2 3/4 in. (3.8 x 7 cm)
Copyright: Public Domain
Allen & Ginter created this small chromolithograph of the Capitol of California in Sacramento as part of a series for cigarette brands. The symmetrical composition immediately conveys a sense of order and stability. The building is centrally positioned, its architectural details rendered with precision. The use of line is particularly striking. The fine, dark lines articulate the structure's components, from the columns to the dome, contrasting with the softer hues of the sky and landscape. This contrast highlights the architectural form, creating a visual hierarchy that emphasizes the building's dominance over its environment. The colors are subdued, with a limited palette that reinforces the image's formal qualities. This work functions as both a representation and a symbol. The image's formal elements, such as symmetry and line, contribute to its symbolic power, evoking notions of governance, permanence, and authority. The artwork invites ongoing interpretation of how architectural forms reflect and shape cultural values.
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