Varnum Continentals

Preserving and Sharing Rhode Island History

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[FEATURED EXHIBIT] 1839 Lithograph of General George Washington

January 14, 2017 By James Mitchell Varnum

1839 lithograph of General George Washington
1839 lithograph of General George Washington

Here’s another great exhibit at the Varnum Memorial Armory Museum: a large 1839 lithograph of General George Washington (the frame looks very old as well). You’ll be able to see it in our main display room.  Here’s the description:

Originally painted by Parisian artist Leon Cogniet, engraved by Jean Nicolas Laugier, and sold by James Herring of New York, this is a handsome print of Washington from the first half of the nineteenth century. It highlights the fashion in American culture for images of George Washington. During his life and following his death, Washington was elevated to national symbol, and his image graced every possible object from water jugs to neckerchiefs. Prints showing Washington were issued during his life-time and pretty much continuously throughout the nineteenth century. This is one of the most impressive full-figure engravings produced. This portrait is especially fine, taken from Gilbert Stuart’s work from the neck up, but realistically portraying Washington’s stature. As his adopted son, George Washington Parke Custis, noted, Cogniet’s representation was one of only two extant to capture Washington’s ‘matchless limbs.’

1839 lithograph of General George Washington
1839 lithograph of General George Washington
1839 lithograph of General George Washington
1839 lithograph of General George Washington
1839 lithograph of General George Washington
1839 lithograph of General George Washington
1839 lithograph of General George Washington
1839 lithograph of General George Washington
1839 lithograph of General George Washington
1839 lithograph of General George Washington
1839 lithograph of General George Washington
1839 lithograph of General George Washington

Filed Under: Museum Exhibits, Varnum Memorial Armory Tagged With: 18th century, artwork, George Washington, lithograph, revolutionary war, varnum memorial armory

[DEC. 12 DINNER MEETING] Speaker Greg Banner on The Halifax Disaster

December 3, 2022 By James Mitchell Varnum

In December 1917, a World War I ammunition ship blew up in Halifax Harbour, Nova Scotia. This massive event was listed as the largest man-made explosion in human history prior to atomic weapons and totally devastated the city. Thousands died. Our December speaker, Varnum Member Greg Banner, will describe the background, event, response, and results and discuss aspects of military, nautical, local, and emergency response history.

About the Varnum Continentals

The Varnum Continentals are committed to the preservation of the historic heritage of our community, our state, and our nation. Please take a virtual tour of our museums to learn more about our mission to encourage patriotism. You can participate with us through active membership and/or philanthropic support in our non-profit organization. Donations are tax deductible to the full extent allowed by law. Museum tours are welcomed and our facilities may be rented for suitable events.

Our Mission

The Varnum Continentals are committed to encourage patriotism through the Varnum Armory Museum, the Continental Militia, and the James Mitchell Varnum House and thus to preserve, support, and communicate the military history of our community, our state, and our nation.

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