This section is from the book "The National Capitol. Its Architecture Art And History", by George C. Hazelton, Jr. Also available from Amazon: The National Capitol Its Architecture Art and History.
On the wall above the landing of the staircase is an historical painting by James Walker, which represents the battle of Chapultepec. This battle was fought on the 13th of September, 1847, the American troops being under the command of Generals Pillow and Quitman. The artist was present at the battle, and, no doubt, attempted to record his impressions accurately. The picture is one of the few, if not the only one, in the possession of the government which represents the uniform of the American soldier at that period. It is, however, inadequate in conception and execution to its position and surroundings, though it would, no doubt, appear to good advantage in some less conspicuous place on the walls of the Capitol. The cost of the painting to the government has been $6,137.37. It was executed in i860 and intended for the room of the Committee on Military Affairs of the House.