The artwork titled “Portrait of George Washington and William ‘Billy’ Lee” is a masterful creation by the artist John Trumbull, dated to the year 1780. Executed with oil on canvas, it is a distinguished piece within the Neoclassicism movement. The portrait, measuring 91.4 by 71.1 centimeters, falls under the genre of portraiture and is part of the esteemed collection at the Metropolitan Museum of Art (Met) located in New York City, NY, USA.
The artwork depicts George Washington standing regally in a commanding pose, dressed in a military uniform that befits his status. His right hand rests on his hip while his left hand holds a scroll, exuding an air of authority and leadership. To his left stands William ‘Billy’ Lee, his esteemed valet, who is positioned slightly in the background and is seen holding the bridle of a horse. The setting of the portrait is characterized by a dramatic and somewhat foreboding sky, with muted clouds that convey a sense of impending action or reflection. The background landscape, with hints of distant ships and rugged terrain, further enhances the historical and heroic narrative encapsulated by the painting. The composition of the artwork reflects the meticulous detail and classical ideals characteristic of the Neoclassical style.
