Patriotic Art: the Passage of the Delaware

 

The American Revolution (1775 to1783) inspired generations of artists who sought to capture its drama, heroism, sacrifice, and ideals. While many works were created long after the events—often blending historical fact with artistic license and symbolism—these paintings have profoundly shaped how Americans visualize their founding struggle. They range from near-contemporary propaganda pieces to grand 19th-century historical epics. Among the best:

 The Passage of the Delaware by Thomas Sully (1819)

Sully's massive canvas portrays Washington on horseback overseeing the Delaware crossing, with soldiers, horses, and cannons in dramatic action under a stormy sky. It emphasizes tension and resolve. Though less famous than Leutze’s version, it was an ambitious early attempt at the subject.

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