George Washington Before The Battle Of Trenton — John Trumbull

George Washington before the Battle of Trenton

Admire John Trumbull’s "George Washington Before the Battle of Trenton" – a neoclassical masterpiece depicting a pivotal moment in American history. Explore its drama, symbolism & artistry.


John Trumbull (1756 - 1843)

John Trumbull (1756-1843), 'Painter of the Revolution,' vividly documented America's fight for independence through iconic historical paintings like the Declaration of Independence. Explore his legacy!

George Washington sat for Trumbull in Philadelphia in 1792; from that sitting, the artist created a fullsize canvas (Yale University Art Gallery, New Haven, Conn.) and this smaller version. The general is shown on the evening before the pivotal Battle of Trenton in late 1776. He looks upward, conceiving his strategy against the vastly superior approaching enemy. The significance of the moment is expressed in the drama of the threatening sky and by the excitable horse, held in check by a soldier groom.