The photograph shows the back of the US Capitol in an impressive way. In the foreground, wide steps draw the viewer's gaze into the depths and lend the image a clear structure and symmetry. The dominant, straight lines of the architecture draw the eye to the iconic dome of the Capitol in the background, which towers proudly over the building and lends the image a powerful, calm presence. The clear, reduced mood emphasises the timeless beauty and precision of the architecture - a quiet, powerful image of American history and power.