Classical Blog Exhibit

 

    The American Revolution was depicted through artwork during the classical era. A majority of the art created during this time showed the beginning of a new country. Multiple battles followed the writing of the Declaration of Independence in 1776. George Washington was a prominent figure during the revolution. He later became the first president of the United States of America. It is interesting to see how each artist perceived and portrayed Washington. Each one of these works was completed during the Classical era. 

George Washington Before the Battle of Trenton by John Trumbull 

    I remember this piece from history books from my elementary school years. The tones are dramatic and add to the effect that the subject is of importance. George Washington seems decorated in this work and stands tall even though it seems that there is turmoil behind him. Since I am not a total history nerd, I would not have this in my home. 

    

    This work was created between 1792-1794. John Trumbull was one of the most prominent painters during this time. It seems that a majority of his works are focused on the events of the Revolutionary War. His work was admired by many after the war, even George Washington bought his works. 

Washington Crossing the Deleware by Emanuel Leutze

   This work may be my favorite in this gallery. The focus lies on George Washington and the flag. There is a strong sense of responsibility and pressure shown on the other subjects as they cross the river. The work seems gloomy and cold, which the artist portrayed through the colors and textures. Again, I would much rather prefer this work in a museum rather than in my home. 

  This piece is large! It stands in twenty-one feet by twelve-foot large frame. The subjects are meant to seem life-size. Painted in 1851,  I wonder how long it took to paint such an extravagant piece. Emanuel Leutze's focus was on portraying how various individuals with different backgrounds unified and worked together for a better future. 

George Washinton by Gilbert Stuart

  It seems that Washington is much older and more relaxed in this piece compared to the rest in the gallery. The tones chosen by Stuart show a pale Washington in a dark setting. It seems as if the background is a curtain of some sort. The piece is classic portraiture that shows an individual of importance. I appreciate the simplicity of it. 

  This work is considered a copy since there are multiple similar works. Gilbert Stuart is considered to have created the most accurate replica. Personally, I wonder what the story behind this work is. It was painted in 1755 and is currently found at The Met Fifth. 

"George Washington". Metmuseum.Org, https://www.metmuseum.org/art/collection/search/16584. 

"George Washington Before The Battle Of Trenton". Metmuseum.Org, 

        https://www.metmuseum.org/art/collection/search/12823.

"John Trumbull, Painter Of The Revolution". Nyhistory.Org, 2019, https://www.nyhistory.org/blogs/john-

          trumbull-painter-of-the-revolution.

"Ten Great Paintings Of The American Revolution". The American Revolution Institute, 

                https://www.americanrevolutioninstitute.org/treasures-of-the-american-revolution/ten-great-

                american-revolution-paintings/.