Artwork
Plaque of George Washington
Plaque of George Washington is a porcelain painting. It dates from 1815 and is held in the collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art. This small porcelain plaque presents a profile portrait of George Washington.
About this work
The artist is unknown, but the work feels personal, like a keepsake rather than a grand statement.
This is a small porcelain plaque with George Washington’s face in profile. The colors are soft, pale blue, cream, and a touch of pink on his cheek.
It was made in France between 1800 and 1830, not long after Washington died. The French admired him, even though he’d fought against them in the Revolutionary War. The artist is unknown, but the work feels personal, like a keepsake rather than a grand statement.
If you like this, look up more portraits of Washington, some are surprising.
Overview
This small porcelain plaque presents a profile portrait of George Washington. Executed in soft hues, it captures the likeness of the American leader in a manner suggesting a personal memento rather than a formal declaration. Created in France during the early 19th century, the piece reflects a period when Washington's image was widely disseminated and revered internationally. It is part of The American Wing collection.
Subject & Meaning
The plaque features George Washington's profile, rendered with delicate detail. Its intimate scale and subdued palette contribute to a sense of personal remembrance, distinguishing it from larger, more official depictions. This portrayal suggests its function as a cherished keepsake, perhaps intended for private display, reflecting a broader cultural appreciation for the first American president's legacy.
Technique & Style
Crafted from porcelain, the plaque exhibits a refined artistry characteristic of the medium. The palette is intentionally muted, featuring pale blue, cream, and subtle pink accents on the cheek, which soften Washington's features. This delicate color scheme and the smooth finish of the porcelain contribute to the plaque's elegant and understated aesthetic, highlighting the material's capacity for fine detail.
History & Provenance
This porcelain plaque was produced in France sometime between 1800 and 1830, a period immediately following George Washington's death. Although the artist remains unidentified, its creation in France underscores the widespread international recognition and admiration for Washington, even among nations with whom the United States had previously been in conflict.
Context
The creation of this plaque in France is notable given Washington's role in the American Revolutionary War against Great Britain, an ally of France at times, but also his earlier military actions against French forces. Despite these historical complexities, Washington was widely respected in France as a symbol of republican ideals and leadership, leading to the production of numerous commemorative objects like this one.
Artist & collection
