The House Collection

Sketches in Washington - In and About the Capitol, Collection of the U.S. House of Representatives
About this object
Home to thousands of artifacts and works of art, the House Collection encompasses the entire sweep of the institution’s history, from the laying of the Capitol’s cornerstone to the present day. Photographs, paintings, artifacts, and even record albums document the people, history and ideas that have shaped the House. The art and artifacts of the dynamic House Collection are woven into a grand narrative that reflects the relationship between art, artifacts, and the history of the nation’s legislature. 

More than 250 works of art from the House Collection are displayed in the spaces where the nation’s laws are made. These objects make up only a portion of the collection, which is more fully available on this website and encompasses thousands of historical artifacts and photographs that address all aspects of the institution’s heritage, from the ceremonial to the everyday. 

The House’s Office of Art and Archives curates the collection and makes it accessible to the widest possible public. Curatorial staff actively collect objects related to the House’s heritage. For questions about House art and artifacts, please direct email to art@mail.house.gov or call 202-226-1300.