In 1865 the Italian Artist, Constantino Brumidi painted the fresco, The Apotheosis of Washington, on the ceiling of the U.S. Capitol dome in Washington. The painting depicts the deification of George Washington as well as his ascendancy into heaven. Washington was an iconic American symbol in the 1800s and the artwork symbolized nineteenth century sentiments for the first president and Continental Army Commander. As is fitting, President Washington’s service and accomplishments on behalf of the nation in its beginnings is still acknowledged and lauded today. However, in contrast to the 1800s, one question that might creep in today regarding The Apotheosis of Washington displayed so prominently is: Does the display of the painting in the capitol building violate the separation of church and state? What do you think?  Comment below.