Regilded horse statues unveiled in DC in latest Trump project

The Arts of War and Arts of Peace statues near the Lincoln Memorial in Washington, D.C., have completed a scheduled restoration. President Donald Trump confirmed the project is finished, sharing images of the sculptures with their refreshed gold coating. The statues, which sit near the Arlington Memorial Bridge and the Rock Creek and Potomac Parkway, serve as significant monuments in the capital.

Work on these sites began in early July 2026. The National Park Service implemented temporary closures in specific sections of the National Mall and Memorial Parks to protect the surrounding areas and allow construction crews to perform the necessary maintenance. The agency stated that these measures were essential to ensure public safety and preserve cultural resources during the rehabilitation effort.

The project addressed long-standing damage to the bronze structures. Records indicate that the statues suffered from severe purple staining caused by chemical reactions from previous cleaning attempts. Experts used various methods including laser cleaning and microabrasives over the years, which led to the degradation of the surface. This recent renovation aims to correct those issues and restore the monuments to their intended appearance.

While construction activities are nearing completion, some surrounding areas remain subject to park management protocols. The National Park Service plans to remove restrictions as soon as construction equipment is cleared and the sites are deemed safe for public access. The restoration is part of a larger series of infrastructure and maintenance projects overseen by the current administration in the nation's capital.