portrait

The reverse-painted portrait of George Washington was damaged in the catastrophic Corning flood of 1972. As a result of this damage, the object has been off view for 50 years, but the special construction of the wooden frame, fitted in China with ‘spacers’ to protect the glass from movements in the wood caused by atmospheric humidity, probably saved it from shattering during its 19th century oceanic journeys and during the flood more than 200 years after its making. Displaying this work in its damaged condition demonstrates the arc of a long-life and its ravages, and underscores the threat and consequences of climate events on our collections. The United States will celebrate its 250th anniversary in 2026. We hope that supporting funds can be raised to restore our reverse-painted portrait to mark that significant anniversary, continuing the life journey of this remarkable work.