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New George Washington Portrait Unveiled at Museum

The newly unveiled portrait of George Washington representing his leadership during the Revolutionary War.

News Summary

A new portrait of George Washington created by Charles Peale Polk was unveiled at the American Revolution Museum in Yorktown. The circa-1790 painting marks an enhancement to the museum’s collection, depicting Washington as commander-in-chief during the Battle of Princeton. The museum emphasizes the portrait’s significance in portraying American patriotism and resilience. Visitors can view the painting in the Declaration of Independence rotunda. The museum welcomes guests daily and is approaching its 10-year anniversary in 2026.

Yorktown – A new portrait of George Washington was unveiled at the American Revolution Museum in Yorktown on July 4, marking a significant addition to the museum’s collection. The circa-1790 painting, created by artist Charles Peale Polk, depicts Washington in his role as commander-in-chief and victor of the Battle of Princeton, which took place on January 3, 1777. This painting is now on permanent exhibit in the museum’s Declaration of Independence rotunda, within a section dedicated to the material culture of Revolutionary War officers and commanders.

The Jamestown-Yorktown Foundation, which oversees the museum, views the portrait as an important enhancement to storytelling about the nation’s founding. The museum’s senior curator noted that Washington’s leadership skills during the Revolutionary War were vital and emphasized that the portrait represents themes of American resilience and patriotism.

The artwork portrays Washington as an imposing figure, dressed in a military uniform, wielding a sword, and donning a large black hat, while scenes of patriot soldiers at ease fill the background. The stylistic techniques used in the painting reflect those commonly employed by Polk’s uncle, Charles Willson Peale, who adopted Polk when he was orphaned in 1777, training him in his studio in Philadelphia.

This particular portrait is unsigned, painted in oils on canvas, and measures approximately 32 by 25 inches, elegantly framed in gilded wood. Its lineage traces back to a private collection in Portugal, where it remained until resurfacing in the United States three years ago. Upon its return, the portrait underwent authentication by a former curator from the Corcoran Gallery of Art, ensuring its historical legitimacy.

The American Revolution Museum at Yorktown welcomes visitors daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and is located at 200 Water Street in Yorktown. Admission prices are set at $20 for adults and $10 for youths between ages 6 and 12; children aged 5 and under are granted free entry. Local residents from York County, James City County, and the City of Williamsburg, as well as students from William & Mary, can enjoy complimentary admission upon presenting proof of residency.

For those interested in exploring more, the museum offers a value-priced combination ticket for guests wishing to also visit the Jamestown Settlement. Visitors can take advantage of free parking at the museum, which includes other exhibits related to George Washington and the Revolutionary War.

The American Revolution Museum at Yorktown is approaching its 10-year anniversary in 2026. It has proudly served as a commemorative partner for the Virginia American Revolution 250 Commission, contributing to ongoing efforts to celebrate and educate the public about the Revolutionary War and American history.