Israel Putnam, Esq. — Major General of the Americans
G.N. Raspe, Nuremberg, 1778 — Frame: 8¼ x 6 inches; sight: 6¾ x 4¼ inches
 
An engraved European portrait of Israel Putnam, issued in Nuremberg by G.N. Raspe during the height of the American Revolutionary War. Prints of this type reflect the strong transatlantic interest in American military leaders, presenting Putnam to a European audience as a prominent figure in the colonial struggle.
 
Putnam gained early distinction during the French and Indian War and later became closely associated with the opening campaigns of the Revolution, particularly the fighting around Boston and the Battle of Bunker Hill. Portrait engravings such as this helped circulate the likenesses of American commanders abroad and contributed to their growing international reputation.
 
Condition: Very fine.