Nebraska State Capitol · Lincoln, Nebraska

The American Bison

Prairie Deco animals carved as civic symbols at the Nebraska State Capitol.

The American Bison appears in the Nebraska State Capitol’s sculptural programme as a powerful emblem of the Great Plains. Lawrie placed bison across the building, including the Governor’s Reception Room fireplace mantle and the north balustrades.

Nebraska State Capitol

The American Bison

Bison bull from the north balustrades of the Nebraska State Capitol, Nebraska State Capitol — Bison bull from the north balustrades of the Nebraska State Capitol

Lawrie’s carving layout for the bison and the Indiana limestone masonry, Nebraska State Capitol — Lawrie’s carving layout for the bison and the Indiana limestone masonry

Bison bull on the balustrade, Nebraska State Capitol, Nebraska State Capitol — Bison bull on the balustrade, Nebraska State Capitol

Bison cow and calf on the balustrade, Nebraska State Capitol, Nebraska State Capitol — Bison cow and calf on the balustrade, Nebraska State Capitol

Balustrade bison bull, Nebraska State Capitol, Nebraska State Capitol — Balustrade bison bull, Nebraska State Capitol

Bison head at 20 Exchange Place, Lower Manhattan, Nebraska State Capitol — Bison head at 20 Exchange Place, Lower Manhattan
This sculpture is not attributed to Lawrie, but it echoes his geometric treatment of the bison’s curls and beard. Photograph by Chris Kralik, commissioned by Gregory Harm.

West Bison Balustrade at the Nebraska State Capitol, Nebraska State Capitol — West Bison Balustrade at the Nebraska State Capitol
A panoramic view of the bison carvings in relation to the building at the North Portal.