Artwork
General Washington
General Washington is an ink print by the Romanticist artist Valentine Green. It dates from 1799 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.
About this work
Mezzotint is a tricky printmaking technique where the artist roughens metal plates to create soft shadows.
This print shows George Washington in uniform, facing left, his face calm but serious. The artist used fine lines and shading to make Washington look dignified yet human. The dark background pushes his face forward, so you focus on him.
Valentine Green made this hand-colored mezzotint in 1799. Mezzotint is a tricky printmaking technique where the artist roughens metal plates to create soft shadows. Green’s version adds color by hand after printing.
Look up the National Gallery of Art, Washington to see this print in person.
Overview
General Washington is a print created by Valentine Green in 1799, combining hand-colored mezzotint and engraving techniques on wove paper.
Subject & Meaning
The print depicts George Washington in uniform, facing left, with a calm yet serious expression, conveying dignity and humanity through fine lines and shading.
Technique & Style
The mezzotint technique involves roughening metal plates to achieve soft shadows, with color added by hand after printing, resulting in a nuanced and detailed representation.
History & Provenance
Created in 1799, this print is an example of Green's work during this period, and a copy is held by the National Gallery of Art, Washington.
Artist & collection
