Rembrandt Peale's George Washington Porthole Portrait Added to the UNT Dallas Library Collection

The UNT Dallas Library received a life portrait of George Washington at the February 19th Faculty Alliance meeting.

The portrait of Washington, sometimes referred to as the Porthole portrait, was painted by Philadelphian painter Rembrandt Peale (1778-1860). Peale was well known during his lifetime for his portraiture and replicas. His most prominent work was the Porthole portrait which he began in 1795 when he was only 17 years old. Washington sat for nine hours over three days for the portrait, however Peale felt he failed to capture the spirit of Washington during Washington's lifetime. He struggled for over two decades to capture his vision on canvas finally completing the portrait in 1823. The final portrait combines both an accurate portrayal and the ideal mystique of the man who lead the country during both war and peace and who helped establish the firm foundation upon which the government stands today. 

The original hangs in the old Senate Chamber of the United States Capitol, but you can view our copy at the UNT Dallas Library service desk located on the ground floor of building 7400 Founders Hall.

Interested in art? Why not try searching ARTSTOR one of the many art related databases provided to you from the UNT Dallas Library.

Painting, UNT Dallas Library