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American Eagle on Red Scroll by W. H. Bean

W. H. Bean · 1860–1900

W. H. Bean's "American Eagle on Red Scroll," painted around 1880, is a powerful oil allegory of national unity. The artwork, housed at the National Museum of American History, features the national bird clutching the motto "E PLURIBUS UNUM."

Observe the eagle's firm grip on the red scroll, where the Latin phrase is prominently displayed. Flanked by laurel wreaths symbolizing victory, the composition is designed to evoke national pride.

Created during a period of American expansion and consolidation, this emblem likely served a civic or governmental purpose, reinforcing the ideals of a unified nation emerging from many. Bean, an artist active in the late 19th century, focused on direct and impactful symbolic imagery.

This painting stands as a clear and accessible representation of American identity and aspirations.

Details

The scroll reads 'E PLURIBUS UNUM'.
The scroll reads 'E PLURIBUS UNUM'.
This motto means 'Out of Many, One'.
This motto means 'Out of Many, One'.
The piercing gaze and sharp beak convey a sense of vigilance and power.
The piercing gaze and sharp beak convey a sense of vigilance and power.
Transcript

This eagle holds the nation's motto. Its talons grip the red scroll firmly. The scroll reads 'E PLURIBUS UNUM'. This motto means 'Out of Many, One'. W. H. Bean painted this in 1880. It served as a potent patriotic emblem.