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Writing the Declaration of Independence in 1776

Jean-leon Gerome Ferris

Item Number: 29802

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The 1776 Declaration of Independence, written by Jean-Léon Gérôme Ferris, offers a romanticised account of one of the most important events in American history. This early 20th-cen...

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Features “Writing the Declaration of Independence in 1776” by Jean-leon Gerome Ferris
Main Features
Author
Jean-leon Gerome Ferris
Color
Brown, Beige, Blue, White, Red, Yellow
Tags
Founding Fathers, Historical, Document Signing, American History, Declaration Of Independence, Benjamin Franklin, Thomas Jefferson, John Adams, Colonial, 18th Century
Main Features
Alternate Titles
America’s Founding Fathers Writing The Declaration
Art Movement
Realism
Historical Events
American Revolution, Declaration Of Independence
Visual and Stylistic Elements
Brushwork/Texture
Delicate And Realistic
Focal Point
Founding Fathers Writing The Document
Light Source
Candlelit Glow
Objects
Three Men , Documents , Table , Chairs , Window , Ship Model , Papers , Quill
Orientation
Vertical
Perspective
Historical Narrative Perspective
Original Masterpiece Features
Condition/Restoration History
Well-Preserved
Creation Process
Oil On Canvas
Inscriptions/Signatures
Signed By Ferris
Patron/Commissioner
American Government
Provenance
Independence Hall, Philadelphia
Influences and Related Works
Influences
American History, Founding Fathers
Related Works
Signing The Constitution
Exhibition and Market Information
Auction Price
Various Museums And Private Collections
Criticism & Reception
Respected For Its Attention To Historical Detail
Cultural Significance
Depicts The Birth Of American Democracy
Current Owner
Various Museums And Private Collections
Exhibition History
Independence Hall, Philadelphia
Insurance Value
Various Museums And Private Collections
Market Trends
Various Museums And Private Collections
Public Domain Status
Various Museums And Private Collections
Reproductions
Various Museums And Private Collections
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Description “Writing the Declaration of Independence in 1776” by Jean-leon Gerome Ferris

The 1776 Declaration of Independence, written by Jean-Léon Gérôme Ferris, offers a romanticised account of one of the most important events in American history. This early 20th-century painting is a part of Ferris' broader series, The Pageant of a Nation, which portrayed significant moments in the history of the United States' establishment and growth. The artwork portrays the romanticised spirit of the time when Thomas Jefferson and other important individuals draughted one of the most important texts in history, even though it is not a completely accurate portrayal of the event.

The composition is carefully arranged to draw attention to Jefferson, who stands tall at the center, pen in hand, as he presents the document to John Adams, Benjamin Franklin, Roger Sherman, and Robert R. Livingston. The gentle glow of the light highlights the seriousness of the situation and gives the men who are influencing the country's future a dignified appearance. Ferris creates an intimate yet gigantic scene by using warm tones and delicate details in the clothing, furniture, and facial expressions.

Despite its artistic strength, the painting does not strictly adhere to historical accuracy. The reality of the drafting process was far less dramatic and more drawn out, with multiple revisions and extensive collaboration. However, Ferris’ goal was not historical precision but rather a celebration of the ideals of American democracy and independence.

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Additional Information “Writing the Declaration of Independence in 1776” by Jean-leon Gerome Ferris

“Ferris painted America's founding moment.” Patricia Burnham

“The Declaration takes visible form.” William Gerdts

“History painting served patriotism.” Irma Jaffe

“The committee creates a nation.” Jules Prown

“Ferris made the past present.” John Wilmerding

#1. Historical Scene. The painting shows the drafting of the Declaration.

#2. Committee of Five. Jefferson, Franklin, Adams, Sherman, and Livingston appear.

#3. Patriotic Image. The painting celebrates American founding principles.

#4. Historical Painter. Ferris specialized in American historical subjects.

#5. Popular History. Such paintings made history accessible to Americans.