Declaration of Independence
Medium
Classification
Department
Smithsonian Collection
Museum
Smithsonian American Art Museum
Credit
National Portrait Gallery, Smithsonian Institution
Accession Number
S/NPG.79.64.A
Tags
Art Historical Context
James Barton Longacre's *Declaration of Independence* (c. 1818) is a striking print that captures the spirit of America's founding moment. Created by the renowned engraver and portraitist Longacre, who later became chief engraver of the U. Mint, this work depicts key figures from the Revolutionary era, including George Washington as a general and surveyor, John Hancock as a Massachusetts statesman and signer, and Thomas as a Virginia inventor, secretary of state, and Declaration signer. Surrounding them are symbolic elements like an eagle wreath, cornucopia, and sword, evoking national pride a...