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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

More Artwork

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Washington Reviewing the Western Army at Fort Cumberland, Maryland, Frederick Kemmelmeyer American, Oil on canvas, American
Washington Reviewing the Western Army at Fort Cumberland, Maryland
Attributed to Frederick Kemmelmeyer
after 1795
Powder Horn, Horn (cow), lead, American
Powder Horn
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Altar Shrine with Four Saints, Italian (Venetian) Painter , third quarter of 15th century Italian, Oil and gold leaf on wood panel, Italian
Altar Shrine with Four Saints
Italian (Venetian) Painter
ca. 1450–75
Man and Two Women (Henderson Ledger Artist B), Frank Henderson Native American, Pencil, colored pencil, and ink on paper, Arapaho
Man and Two Women (Henderson Ledger Artist B)
Frank Henderson
ca. 1882
Still Life Fruit and Wine Glass, Severin Roesen American, Oil on board with gold leaf frame, American
Still Life Fruit and Wine Glass
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