National Gallery of Art Custom Prints
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Samuel F. B. Morse

The House of Representatives, 1822

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SPECIAL EXHIBITION
Paris 1874: The Impressionist Moment
How did Impressionism begin? Discover the origins of the French art movement in a new look at the radical 1874 exhibition considered the birth of modern painting.
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About the Artwork

With this monumental painting, Samuel F. B. Morse wanted to glorify US democracy in action. He depicts the grand House of Representatives chamber glowing in lamplight before an evening session.

The artist spent four months in Washington painting the individuals seen here: congressmen, staff, Supreme Court justices, and press. At the far right in the visitors’ gallery is Chief Petalesharo (Pawnee Nation), who visited President James Monroe in 1821. Petalesharo is isolated from the other figures, echoing the oppression and displacement of Native Americans. Morse toured the painting in 1823, but it did not draw much attention. He went on to pursue scientific interests, becoming famous as the primary inventor of the telegraph.

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About Our Prints

Quality
National Gallery of Art Custom Prints is your exclusive source for custom reproductions authorized and available for purchase directly from the National Gallery of Art. All items that are offered are produced using gallery-quality materials and the color is managed in a manner that produces a reproduction as true to the original as modern technology will allow.
Selection
Many of the works offered through this store are exclusive and not available anywhere else. In addition, new works are continually added to the offering, so come back often to see our new releases.
Customization
You have found the work that speaks to you. Now what? Using our innovative custom framing tool you can preview exactly what your finished and framed art will look like. We offer many different moulding styles so there is sure to be a match for any type of decor.

Member Discounts

Circle Members will receive a 20% discount for all Custom Prints orders processed through our kiosk or website. During the checkout process, enter the coupon code you received from the membership office and your discount will be applied.