Artwork
Plaque of George Washington
Plaque of George Washington is an unspecified painting. It dates from 1785 and is held in the collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art. This small enamel plaque depicts George Washington in profile, rendered with a white face against a deep blue ground.
About this work
Overview
This small enamel plaque depicts George Washington in profile, rendered with a white face against a deep blue ground. Crafted from enamel, a medium more commonly associated with decorative arts or jewelry, it stands out among contemporary portraits of the first president. Its design suggests it was intended for personal adornment rather than display on a wall.
Technique & Style
This technique gives the portrait a distinctive, jewel-like quality, differing significantly from the oil paintings prevalent during the period.
The plaque's creation involved a meticulous process characteristic of enamel work. The artist applied finely ground glass powders to a metal base, carefully painting the intricate details of Washington's likeness. This piece was then subjected to high temperatures, fusing the glass to create a durable, lustrous surface, akin to fired pottery. This technique gives the portrait a distinctive, jewel-like quality, differing significantly from the oil paintings prevalent during the period.
Subject & Meaning
George Washington, the subject of this plaque, is presented in a dignified profile, a common pose for commemorative imagery. Unlike larger, formal oil portraits, this miniature work was designed for personal wear, functioning similarly to an elaborate button or a piece of jewelry. Its intimate scale and portable nature allowed individuals to display their admiration for the national figure in a personal and fashionable manner.
Artist & collection
