Art heals: the symbolism in the Biden inauguration painting by Robert S. Duncanson

Black artist Robert S. Duncanson’s 'Landscape With Rainbow, ' an oil on canvas painted in 1859. Photo: Smithsonian American Art Museum

The official “inauguration painting” displayed at a reception inside the US Capitol today came weighted with layered symbolism. The deft choice spoke of a new administration with an insightful understanding of art’s potential power.

Apparently chosen by Jill Biden, the incoming first lady, and Sen. Roy Blunt (R-Mo.) to commemorate the swearing-in ceremony, it was painted in 1859 by prominent Black artist Robert S. Duncanson (1821-1872). The painting is in the collection of the Smithsonian American Art Museum, up the street and around the corner from the Capitol.