Benjamin Franklin (1706–1790) 1778 Joseph Siffred Duplessis French When Franklin arrived in France in December 1776 to negotiate aid for the American Revolutionary War, he was already a celebrity known for his simple dress and refusal to wear a wig. He stayed in a house provided by Jacques Donatien Le Ray de Chaumont who commissioned a terracotta medallion with his profile as well as this portrait, which was exhibited at the Salon of 1779. It quickly emerged as the most iconic image of this legendary statesman. The original frame includes the attributes of Liberty, Peace, and Victory, with an
Benjamin Franklin (1706–1790) 1778 Joseph Siffred Duplessis French When Franklin arrived in France in December 1776 to negotiate aid for the American Revolutionary War, he was already a celebrity known for his simple dress and refusal to wear a wig. He stayed in a house provided by Jacques Donatien Le Ray de Chaumont who commissioned a terracotta medallion with his profile as well as this portrait, which was exhibited at the Salon of 1779. It quickly emerged as the most iconic image of this legendary statesman. The original frame includes the attributes of Liberty, Peace, and Victory, with an inscription not of the sitter’s name, but “VIR” Latin for “man” or “hero.” Franklin’s identity was evidently understood to be obvious from his face alone. Listen to experts illuminate this artwork's story Listen Play or pause #5018. Benjamin Franklin (1706–1790) Supported by Bloomberg Philanthropies We're sorry, the transcript for this audio track is not available at this time. We are working to make it available as soon as Benjamin Franklin (1706–1790). Joseph Siffred Duplessis (French, Carpentras 1725–1802 Versailles). 1778. Oil on canvas. Paintings
Size: 6132px × 8176px
Photo credit: © MET/BOT / Alamy / Afripics
License: Licensed
Model Released: No
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