Declaration of Independence
Painting on canvas • John Trumbull
Style & Movement
Neoclassicism / American History Painting
Medium & Technique
Oil on canvas, utilizing academic realism with glazing and linear perspective
Creation Period
1817–1818 (Commissioned 1817, placed in Rotunda 1826)
Dimensions & Format
12 feet by 18 feet (3.7 m × 5.5 m); monumental landscape format
Subject Description
Depicts the five-man drafting committee presenting their draft of theDeclaration of Independence to the Continental Congress in Independence Hall, Philadelphia. Features 42 of the 56 signers, captured from life-sittings where possible.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Very Good; professionally maintained by the Architect of the Capitol as part of a national collection
Estimated Market Value
Inestimable; as a national treasure and fixture of the U.S. Capitol, it is not subject to private market valuation.
Auction Estimate
N/A; Public/National Property
Provenance History
Commissioned by the United States Congress in 1817; has remained in the custody of the U.S. Federal Government since completion; permanently installed in the U.S. Capitol Rotunda.
Art Historical Significance
One of the most iconic images in American history; it serves as a primary visual record of the Founding Fathers. It is the centerpiece of Trumbull's career, who was known as the 'Painter of the Revolution.'
Notable Features
Housed in a massive architectural gilded frame with Greek key motifs; accurate architectural rendering of the Pennsylvania State House interior; includes portraits of Thomas Jefferson and Benjamin Franklin.
Condition Issues
Historical surface grime, minor localized cracking (craquelure) consistent with age, and past restorative cleanings and varnish applications.
Conservation Recommendations
Periodic surface cleaning by specialized federal conservators; climate-controlled environment (humidity/temperature monitoring); UV-filtered lighting at standard museum levels.