Centennial of Washington's Inauguration
Unknown Artist
1889
Medium
White metal
Dimensions
Diam. 1 in. (2.5 cm)
Classification
Medal
Culture
American
Department
The American Wing
Museum
Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY
Credit
Gift of Mr. and Mrs. F. S. Wait, 1907
Accession Number
07.251.32
Tags
Art Historical Context
This petite white metal medallion, measuring just 1 inch in diameter, commemorates the centennial of Washington's inauguration as the first U.S. President on April 30, 1789. Created by an unknown artist in 1889, it captures Washington's profile—a classic motif symbolizing American founding ideals. Such small-scale works were popular in the late 19th century for celebrations, blending artistry with historical reverence. The medallion's creation marked a wave of national nostalgia during America's Gilded Age, when events like world's fairs and centennials honored revolutionary heroes. Washingto...