George Washington, c. 1858. Rembrandt Peale (1778-1860)(after Charles Willson Peale 1741-1827). Oil on Canvas. Bequest of Roderick Terry, Jr.
This painting is the earliest known depiction of George Washington, painted when he was only forty years old.
Rembrandt Peale, son of Charles Willson Peale, was born in Pennsylvania. He received instruction in art from his father at an early age and at seventeen obtained a sitting with George Washington. In 1801, he went to England to study and upon his return established himself in Philadelphia. In 1807 he went abroad again, living some time in Paris. When he returned he established a Museum and Gallery of Painting in the City of Baltimore.
