“American Star: Washington and the Founders” Engraving
Cheshire, Connecticut, circa 1812 - Frame: 10¾ x 12⅝ inches; sight: 8¾ x 10⅝ inches
 
A finely executed allegorical composition centered on George Washington, with Thomas Jefferson, James Madison, and John Adams arranged below in oval reserves. Draped banners and crossed standards frame the grouping, surmounted by a radiant star inscribed “American Star,” uniting the leading figures of the founding generation within a single emblematic composition.
 
Issued at the outset of the War of 1812, the engraving invokes the authority of the revolutionary generation at a moment of renewed conflict with Great Britain. By placing Washington above his political heirs, the image asserts continuity between the Revolution and the nation’s second war for independence, reinforcing the legitimacy of republican government and the endurance of American national purpose.
 
Condition: Excellent.