“Sacred to the Memory of the Illustrious G. Washington” 1801 by Thomas Clarke, Stipple Engraved Print on Laid Paper as a Memorial of the Death of George Washington, Framed, Very Fine.
Thomas Clarke, of Boston, engraved this memorial to George Washington in 1801. The print itself measures about 8” x 8.5” (by sight), while its original decorative frame fully measures 9” x 9”. A nice clear impression, not examined out of its frame. Its classical imagery includes an obelisk and weeping willow, are typical of the neoclassical period, as are the trio of mourners, sobbing into their handkerchiefs. One of the mourners carries a large anchor (a traditional symbol of hope, steadfastness, or salvation) and points heavenward with her right hand held high. The likeness of Washington on the obelisk is based on Gilbert Stuart’s portrait of the president with his name “G. WASHINGTON.” below. The obelisk is inscribed “There is rest in heaven.”

Provenance: Jas A. Gundry; The Museum of Fine Arts, Houston.
George Washington’s death on December 14, 1799, sparked a wave of mourning among American citizens which has never been equaled.

The passing of the country’s first president was marked by a flurry of memorial services, processions, mock funerals, the publication of over 400 eulogies and funeral orations and the creation of a staggering number of prints and memorial embroideries. These tributes extolled Washington’s virtues, encouraging Americans to emulate his character and preserve the strength of the new republic.