Joseph Reed — Revolutionary War Portrait Engraving
Drawn from life by Pierre Eugène du Simitière; engraved by B. L. Prévost, Paris
1781
Frame: 9 x 7 inches; sight: 7¼ x 5½ inches
 
A finely executed line engraving of Joseph Reed, shown in profile within an oval medallion suspended above a pedestal. The plate bears the inscription “Drawn from the life by Du Simitiere in Philadelphia” and “Engraved by B. L. Prevost at Paris,” indicating its origin in the celebrated 1781 Paris series depicting notable figures of the American Revolution. 
 
Reed, a Pennsylvania lawyer and prominent Revolutionary leader, served as Adjutant General of the Continental Army before entering public office. Elected to the Continental Congress in 1778, he later signed the Articles of Confederation. During the war he became widely admired for rejecting British attempts at bribery and political influence; when offered £10,000 and high office to support reconciliation, he reportedly replied that the King of Great Britain was “not rich enough” to purchase his loyalty.
 
Condition: Very fine.