Framed George Washington (Vaughan Portrait) by Gilbert Stuart

The George Washington (Vaughan portrait) is an iconic depiction of the first U.S. president, painted by Gilbert Stuart in 1795. It is part of a series of portraits Stuart created of Washington, which have become central images in American history. The Vaughan portrait is one of Gilbert Stuart's earliest portrayals of Washington, and its success led to further commissions, including the famous Athenaeum portrait, which became the basis for the image of Washington on the U.S. one-dollar bill. Stuart’s mastery lies in his ability to capture Washington's character and authority, making his works central to the visual identity of early American leadership.