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Memorial to George Washington

Dateafter 1799

MediumSilhouette; cut paper on fabric backed with matboard in wood and metal frame

DimensionsPrimary Dimensions (image height x width): 5 1/2 x 5in. (14 x 12.7cm) Sheet (height x width): 7 x 5 1/2in. (17.8 x 14cm) Frame (height x width of oval): 8 x 6 3/4 x 1in. (20.3 x 17.1 x 2.5cm)

ClassificationsGraphics

Credit LineConnecticut Museum of Culture and History collection

Object number2008.78.0

DescriptionTwo cherubs hover near an urn situated beneath a tree with drooping branches, probably meant to represent a willow tree. A vine twines around the trunk of the tree. Additional plants are at the base of the tree and at the end of a banner inscribed "Ob 11 Dec 1799 AE 63". Two long-billed birds are in the plants at the base of the tree. Nine additional birds fly in the sky. One bears a sprig (of laurel?) towards the urn.

Label TextThe death of George Washington in 1799 was commemorated in a wide array of memorials, including prints on paper and fabric, the work of professional artists, as well as school girl watercolors and embroidery. Urns and willow trees are common components of all these memorials, though no specific source for this cut-paper image is known.

Status

Not on view