Washington and Lafayette at Mount Vernon, 1784 (The Home of Washington after the War) 1859

Thomas Pritchard Rossiter’s 1859 painting, “Washington and Lafayette at Mount Vernon,” depicts a historic moment between the two figures, who are shown standing on the veranda of Washington’s home. The painting was a popular choice for American homes in the 19th century as it offered a glimpse into the nation’s past. The lush setting of Mount Vernon, the elegantly dressed figures, and the playful children in the foreground lend a sense of warmth and domesticity to the scene. Rossiter’s attention to detail, particularly in the rendering of the figures’ clothing, offers a fascinating look at 18th-century fashion.