This silk embroidery, enhanced with watercolor, recreates an iconic 1798 engraving titled The Washington Family. Originally published in London by Edward Savage and Robert Wilkinson, the piece blends symbolism and naturalism. George Washington’s uniform signifies his military leadership while papers on the table hint at his presidency. The golden epaulets on his shoulders signal his high military rank. Martha Washington holds a map of the new federal city, representing the nation's future, as embodied by their adopted grandchildren, George and Eleanor Parke Custis. Uniquely, Billy Lee, Washington's personal enslaved servant, is also depicted. Standing ready to serve, Lee is a silent but significant presence in the family picture.
Creator:
Unknown
Date Created:
1810-1820
Format:
Artifact
Materials and Measurements:
Silk thread and paint on silk; (Unframed H x W): 22 x 20 1/2in.
Point of Origin:
New England states
Object Identifier #:
1979.601.7
This silk embroidery, enhanced with watercolor, recreates an iconic 1798 engraving titled The Washington Family. Originally published in London by Edward Savage and Robert Wilkinson, the piece blends symbolism and naturalism. George Washington’s uniform signifies his military leadership while papers on the table hint at his presidency. The golden epaulets on his shoulders signal his high military rank. Martha Washington holds a map of the new federal city, representing the nation's future, as embodied by their adopted grandchildren, George and Eleanor Parke Custis. Uniquely, Billy Lee, Washington's personal enslaved servant, is also depicted. Standing ready to serve, Lee is a silent but significant presence in the family picture.
Creator:
Unknown
Date Created:
1810-1820
Format:
Artifact
Materials and Measurements:
Silk thread and paint on silk; (Unframed H x W): 22 x 20 1/2in.
Point of Origin:
New England states
Object Identifier #:
1979.601.7