Patrick Wyeth. Rebekah Nicolas, Henry Zezze, Emi Sai

Monday, December 12, 2011

SYMBOLS???

I have done much more research and I have found that there are symbols in the painting. What are they? And what do they stand for?
WE HAVE ANSWERS
(Copied From Wikipedia)
The painting is full of symbolism, drawn from both American and ancient Roman symbols of the Roman Republic. Stuart painted Washington from life, showing him standing up, dressed in a black velvet suit with an outstretched hand held up in an oratorical manner (which could be characterized as "commanding and stern yet open and inclusive"). In the background behind Washington is a row of two Doric columns, with another row to the left. Wrapped around and between the columns are red tasseled drapes. Washington’s suit is plain and simple, and the sword that he holds on his left side is a dress sword and not a battle sword (symbolizing a democratic form of government, rather than a monarchy or military dictatorship). In the sky, storm clouds appear on the left while a rainbow appears on the right, signifying the American Revolutionary War giving way to the peace and prosperity of the new United States after the 1783 Treaty of Paris. The medallion at the top of the chair shows the red, white, and blue colors of the flag. On and under the tablecloth-draped table to the left are two books: Federalist—probably a reference to the Federalist Papers—and Journal of Congress—the Congressional Record. Another five books are under the table: the three to the right are General Orders, American Revolution, and Constitutional Bylaws—symbolizing Washington's leadership as commander-in-chief of the Continental Army and president of the Constitutional Convention. The pen and paper on the table signify the rule of law. The leg of the table is shaped like a fasces, an ancient Roman symbol of power and authority. On the far left of the table is a silver inkwell, emblazed with George Washington's coat of arms (see Syng inkstand). A white quill rests upon silver dogs, ancient symbols of loyalty. Behind the table is a large black hat. Washington’s unusually clenched facial expression comes from his famous false teeth.

6 comments:

  1. i think the information is good..
    but u copy so much info. at once,
    and i just want to skip it.
    because it's too long and i am impatient
    so maybe the next time try not to copy so much info. at once and add more things by your own;)

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  2. Ok. Thank you for your ideas

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  3. Patrick,
    Yes, maybe keep each post a little shorter. I know, though, that it's hard to keep it short when there is so much. What is the tie between ancient Rome and Washington? What values did ancient Rome have that translate themselves into the new republic of The United States of America?
    Does this painting show Washington as an emperor, king or president... or a combination of these? A

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  4. The tie between Rome and Washington is that Washington is pictured to have a very calm form of government, unlike the raging Rome government during that time. Also, the last question is very challenging. I would have to say that the picture shows Washington as a normal PRESIDENT. I say this because he is not in a fancy pose or manner, he is simply standing proud, as a president should. Unlike a king or emperor who would be shining with golden clothes and a big face.

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  5. Good answer... though some would say that Washington is looking a bit like a Roman emperor because of the position of his hand. Check out some Roman statues. Mr A

    What is your source for the symbolism points?

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    Replies
    1. Thanks. The information gathered is from Wikipedia.
      Also, I found that indeed Washington resembles a roman emperor. Although his outstretched hand may represent that he can give help, not that he needs it.

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