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The American Star (George Washington)

ca. 1803
Not on view
This picture glorifies Washington's achievements as a soldier, statesman, and Freemason by surrounding him with weapons, symbols of nationhood, and a Masonic shield. His association with the star has numerous connotations, including his being a source of guidance or a light in the darkness.

Artwork Details

Object Information
  • Title: The American Star (George Washington)
  • Artist: Frederick Kemmelmeyer (ca. 1755–1821)
  • Date: ca. 1803
  • Culture: American
  • Medium: Oil and gold leaf on paper
  • Dimensions: 22 x 17 3/4 in. (55.9 x 45.1 cm)
  • Credit Line: Gift of Edgar William and Bernice Chrysler Garbisch, 1962
  • Object Number: 62.256.7
  • Curatorial Department: The American Wing

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Washington Reviewing the Western Army at Fort Cumberland, Maryland, Frederick Kemmelmeyer American, Oil on canvas, American
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Ernesta (Child with Nurse)
Cecilia Beaux
1894
The Rocky Mountains, Lander's Peak, Albert Bierstadt American, Oil on canvas, American
The Rocky Mountains, Lander's Peak
Albert Bierstadt
1863
Fur Traders Descending the Missouri, George Caleb Bingham American, Oil on canvas, American
Fur Traders Descending the Missouri
George Caleb Bingham
1845
At the Seaside, William Merritt Chase American, Oil on canvas, American
At the Seaside
William Merritt Chase
ca. 1892

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