Adele Bass (19th Century) American, Oil on Canvas Portrait of George Washington. 19th century oil on canvas portrait of George Washington in classical style and technique.

George Washington (1732–1799) was an American military leader, statesman, and Founding Father who served as the first President of the United States from 1789 to 1797. Revered as the "Father of His Country," he commanded the Continental Army during the American Revolutionary War, leading the colonies to victory against Great Britain. Washington presided over the Constitutional Convention of 1787 and set enduring precedents for the presidency, including the peaceful transfer of power. Known for his leadership, restraint, and commitment to republican ideals, he declined a third term in office and returned to private life at Mount Vernon, leaving a lasting legacy on the nation’s political and moral identity.

Overall Size: 27 x 23 in.
Sight Size: 20 x 16 in

Adele Bassi was a 19th-century portrait artist known for her refined classical technique and strong compositional sensibility. Active in both New York and France, she exhibited with institutions such as the National Academy of Design, suggesting formal recognition among her contemporaries. Her work often focused on religious and historical themes, including pieces like The Madonna della Saggiola and Angel of the Annunciation, which have appeared in recent auctions, indicating a continued appreciation for her artistry. Though little is known about her personal life, Bassi’s surviving works reveal a painter of quiet skill and traditional sensibilities, whose art bridged transatlantic influences and reflects the disciplined elegance of her era.