George Washington (1732-1799)

Charles Willson Peale

Created:
Movement:
1779
None
key Notes:
Patriotic portraiture, Enlightenment ideals.
Share:
ArtHistory.GG social media icon
ArtHistory.GG social media icon
ArtHistory.GG social media icon
ArtHistory.GG social media icon
Dimensions:
30 x 25 1/4 in. (76.2 x 64.1 cm)
medium:
Oil on canvas
story of the work:

"George Washington (1732-1799)" by Charles Willson Peale was painted in 1779 and is one of the most significant portraits of the first President of the United States, reflecting the ideals of the American Revolution and the emerging national identity. Peale's work not only contributed to the visual representation of Washington as a heroic figure but also established a precedent for presidential portraiture in American art.

Description of the work:

"George Washington (1732-1799)" by Charles Willson Peale is an oil on canvas portrait that depicts the first President of the United States in a three-quarter pose, exuding a sense of authority and dignity. The composition features Washington dressed in a dark blue military uniform adorned with gold epaulettes, set against a neutral background that emphasizes his figure and the meticulous detailing of his facial features and attire.

Artwork Photograph Source:
Harvard Art Museum

Could this content be improved?

Please let us know and we will be happy to correct it. We have put a ton of effort into collating and organizing all of this.
We may follow up with questions.
Thank you! Your submission has been received!
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.
George Washington (1732-1799)