The California capitol underwent an extensive restoration from 1976 to 1982. The building had been declared unsafe, and the decision was made to repair and restore it to its 1906 appearance.
The extensive renovation started with the removal of all decorations, inside and out, and much of the structure itself until it was just a shell. After the main elements of the structure were repaired, the rebuilding began.
The interior work required the use of nearly lost arts. Rediscovered artifacts were refurbished or replaced and old photos were used to guide the craftsmen who copied the lighting fixtures. Mosaic tiling, moulded ceilings, and hand carved wood features were reworked. An uncovered section of an original frieze was copied, re-applied throughout the area, and painted in the original colors.
Staircase Here is an example of the hand carved wood and a pair of unusual lamps.
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From the lamps pictured above, seahorses with wings!
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