Federalist Period
Lack of an American sculptural tradition compelled Jefferson to look to France for this portrait of Washington.
Jean-Antoine Houdon, George Washington
Peale’s sons beckon us up the stairs, but be careful—it might hurt!
Charles Willson Peale, Staircase Group (Portrait of Raphaelle ...
Depicting his subject in motion was a departure from the norm, making this painting the talk of the town.
Gilbert Stuart, The Skater
Unusually early for an American artist, Vanderlyn trained in France—but Old World style didn’t sell in America.
John Vanderlyn, Ariadne Asleep on the Island ...
In addition to being a politician, Jefferson was an ardent supporter and practitioner of classical architecture.
Thomas Jefferson, Monticello
Presidential portraits of George Washington were Stuart’s bread and butter when he returned to his native America.
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