Rhode Island General Assembly: A Legacy of Representation Through Art The Rhode Island General Assembly stands as a testament to the enduring intersection of governance and artistic expression within American history. More than just a legislative body, it has fostered a tradition of commissioning portraits – images intended not merely to depict officials but to encapsulate their character and role in shaping Rhode Island’s identity. Tracing its roots back to colonial Rhode Island’s charter in 1643, the Assembly's history is interwoven with the narrative of Rhode Island itself. Initially foc…