Thomas Jefferson

About this work

This engraving shows Thomas Jefferson in profile, wearing his usual coat and wig. The lines are sharp and precise, with tiny cross-hatches to shade his face. It looks like a photo, but it’s cut into wood. Cole used a tool called a graver to carve the image. The detail tricks your eye—you almost feel the paper’s texture under his cheek. It’s not a painting, but it feels that real. Next time you’re in Washington, check out this print at the National Gallery of Art, Washington.