Benjamin Franklin Portrait Engraving
France, 1778 — Engraved by Juste Chevillet — Frame: 18¼ x 14½ inches; sight: 15¾ x 12 inches
 
A French portrait engraving of Benjamin Franklin by Juste Chevillet titled “Frankelin / Ministre Plénipotentiaire Des États-Unis.” The image derives from the celebrated portrait by Joseph Duplessis depicting Franklin during his diplomatic mission in France.
 
The engraving originated from a painting owned by Jacques-Donatien Le Ray de Chaumont, Franklin’s host at Passy and an important supporter of the Franco-American alliance during the Revolution. The likeness became one of the most enduring representations of Franklin and later inspired its appearance on early American banknotes, including issues of the Chemical Bank of New York. A refined portrait of Franklin at the height of his diplomatic career.
 
Condition: Excellent.