An Italian artist helped shape the visual identity of American democracy, leaving his mark on one of the most recognizable buildings in the United States. His story is at the heart of American Michelangelo, Finding Costantino Brumidi, a documentary presented at the Embassy of Italy in Washington that retraces the life and work of the man known as the “Michelangelo of the Capitol.”

The screening was part of the initiatives marking the 250th Anniversary of the Declaration of Independence. Produced by Antonella Ciancio, a former Reuters Correspondent in Europe and RAI Correspondent in the United States, the film explores Brumidi’s artistic legacy through previously unseen footage of the U.S. Capitol and accounts from art historians and curators who helped bring his work back to public attention beginning in the mid-20th century.

“When we look at Washington, the Italian presence is all around us. It can be seen in its architecture, its artistic heritage, but also in this documentary,” Italian Ambassador Marco Peronaci said.

“This work is more than a remarkable expression of the Italian artistic tradition. It is part of this country’s heritage and literally part of the institution of American democracy,” Peronaci added.

The Ambassador also emphasized the significance of Brumidi’s work as a symbol of the longstanding relationship between the two countries.

“His presence in the Capital is also a reminder of the depth of the friendship between Italy and the United States, a friendship that has endured through different moments in our history and has continued to find new expressions over time,” Peronaci said.

The documentary traces Brumidi’s journey from Italy to the United States, examining how his artistic background informed his work in Washington. Among his most celebrated achievements is The Apotheosis of Washington, the monumental fresco adorning the ceiling of the Capitol Rotunda, depicting George Washington ascending to the heavens surrounded by allegorical figures. 

The film also draws connections between Brumidi’s work in the United States and his artistic production in Rome, including decorations at the Teatro di Villa Torlonia and the Chapel of the Madonna dell’Archetto. Together, these works illustrate how traditions rooted in Italian art became part of the visual heritage of the American capital. 

The National Italian American Foundation (NIAF) supported the production of the documentary. Its President, Robert Allegrini, said the foundation backed the project both to recognize Brumidi’s historical importance and to support Ciancio’s work.

“Brumidi is a figure of great historical significance who demonstrates the contributions of Italians to the United States long before mass migration began in the 1880s,” Allegrini said. He also praised Ciancio, comparing the filmmaker’s work to that of the artist she documents.

Italy’s Ambassador Marco Peronaci with NIAF President Robert Allegrini and journalist and filmmaker Antonella Ciancio

“The second reason is that the filmmaker is Antonella Ciancio, who is, in her own way, a modern-day Brumidi, embellishing Washington with her cameras,” Allegrini said. “Both are masters of their respective arts and have used them to beautify the Nation’s Capital.”

Following the screening, a discussion with Barbara Wolanin, Curator Emerita for the Architect of the Capitol, and Journalist Molly McCluskey offered an opportunity to examine Brumidi’s artistic legacy and the efforts to rediscover his work. The discussion also highlighted the importance of preserving the cultural contributions that connect the histories of Italy and the United States.

As the United States marks the 250th Anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, Brumidi’s story offers a reminder that the country’s artistic heritage was shaped not only by American hands, but also by the work of immigrants who brought their skills and traditions across the Atlantic. More than a century later, his art remains an enduring part of the Capitol and a testament to the lasting influence of Italian culture on the American experience.