The interior of the McLean County Courthouse is stunning, with a central rotunda that stretches from the first floor up into the dome. Due to a net that stretches across the base of the dome to prevent plaster from falling on visitors’ heads, above a certain level the images become blurred by the net’s inteference.
Restored in 2004, the rotunda probably ranks as one of the most beautiful spaces I have seen in America.
In one of the most unique aspects, the staircase to the dome above the flat coffered ceiling actually intrudes into the rotunda’s space.
The ceiling painting is unfortunately obscured by the net, but appears to represent prosperity as an allegory.
Beautiful bas-relief sculpture covers the wall.
A portrait bust of Abraham Lincoln and I believe George Washington grace the niches below the dome.
Love the domes in these old courthouses. The one in STL is magnificient.