George Washington (Vaughan portrait)
1795
Gilbert Stuart captured the first U.S. President in this striking 1795 portrait, known as the 'Vaughan' type. Notice how Washington's face is turned slightly to the right, a clever pose Stuart used to hide the founder's famously uncomfortable, custom-made dentures. The rich, dark coat and crisp white cravat contrast beautifully against the warm, reddish-brown background, giving the founding father a dignified yet approachable look. Stuart actually painted three different versions of Washington, and this specific composition was commissioned by a British merchant named Samuel Vaughan.
Location: National Gallery of Art, Washington D.C.
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