Capitol Portrait Collection Tour
The Michigan State Capitol’s portrait collection contains paintings of former Michigan governors, justices, and legislators.
The Portrait Collection as a Timeline
Due to the chronological nature of our portraits, the collection serves as a record of both Michigan governmental history and the development of art styles and movements throughout the course of American art history. These changes often reflect the social, cultural, and political concerns that existed at the time of each portrait's creation.
Over time, portrait styles shift from classical to modern - brushstrokes become looser and more visible, poses become less stiff, and artworks begin to express more emotion.
Begin the Tour
From the ground floor, take the east wing elevator up to floor two. Exit the elevator and turn to the left (before passing any columns) to find the first portrait.
Portrait of Territorial Governor George Porter
Territorial Governor George Porter
Jacob Eichholtz (1776 - 1842)
Oil on canvas
1834
This painting is the oldest gubernatorial portrait in the collection. Though small, it is a finely painted bust that exemplifies early 19th century American portraiture.
Porter sits at an angle, dressed in formal attire that includes an 1830's cravat. The plain background and Porter's serious expression are typical of formal portraiture. The light, glowing effect of the man's skin is achieved by the application of several thin layers of oil paint, a classical approach to painting.