From left to right per title under image: “nephew” standing, Gen Washington sitting at table; niece standing behind table looking at Gen; Lady Washington seated on right facing left. # 70 imprinted at bottom center
In this historic family portrait, George Washington is shown with his wife, First Lady Martha Washington, who is seated across a table from him. On the table is a map of “North America” to which Martha points with her fan, indicating Washington’s instrumental role in establishing the new nation. The significance of Washington’s responsibility as a leader is further noted by the globe on which “America” is visible. Next to the globe stands a young boy and behind the table stands a young girl. Although the two children are labeled on the botton of the print as “NEPHEW” and “NIECE”, they were erroneously keyed and should be labeled as “GRANDSON” and “GRANDDAUGHTER.” Currier & Ives published several renditions of the family portrait and figures were often interchanged or redrawn.
