"Washington Taking Command of the Army" Engraving, after Alonzo Chappel, [n.d.]

Presented is a nineteenth century engraving titled “Washington Taking Command of the Army,” after the celebrated historical painter Alonzo Chappel. The print depicts George Washington assuming command of the Continental Army at Cambridge Common on July 3, 1775, shortly after his appointment by the Second Continental Congress. Taking command of the hastily assembled provincial forces surrounding British-occupied Boston, Washington inherited an army that was poorly supplied, unevenly trained, and composed largely of volunteer soldiers from the New England colonies. His arrival marked the beginning of the transformation of these provincial militias into a unified Continental Army.

The composition presents Washington mounted upon a white parade horse, accompanied by four mounted officers as he proceeds between ranks of soldiers standing at attention with muskets and fixed bayonets raised skyward. In the foreground are seven figures in varied military dress, including a drummer and someone with the phrase “Liberty or Death” on his shirt. In the background, other regimental colors and banners rise throughout the scene, including the Pine Tree Flag. Washington appears in full military uniform, with a calm, yet determined expression conveying the resolve required of the new commander in chief. The engraving commemorates one of the defining, early moments of the American Revolution. 

CONDITION:

Engraving. Black and white with full margins. Titled in bottom margin, “Washington Taking Command of the Army. /From the original Picture by Chappel, in the possession of the Publishers.” Paper is healthy, save light toning along the very outer paper edge. Clean paper. Faint remnants of glue along the right margin, from where originally hinged in a book. 

Engraving is archivally framed in a custom-built black and brushed gold wooden frame, with gray acid-free top mats, and UV glass.

Framed Dimensions: 15" H x 11 3/4" W x 1" D.

Accompanied by our company's letter of authenticity.