George Washington

Object Details

John Vanderlyn, a leading American portrait artist in the first half of the 19th century, was commissioned in 1834 to paint the George Washington portrait that hangs in the House Chamber. The portrait was intended as a companion piece to Ary Sheffer’s portrait of the Marquis de Lafayette. As was common practice in 19th century portraiture, Vanderlyn modeled this painting after Gilbert Stuart’s authoritative life portrait referred to as the “Munro–Lenox Washington.” In addition to showing a reliable likeness, this composition shows the first president as a statesman, with sheathed sword at this side, indicating his retirement from military leadership and the hope of a peaceful future for the nation.