104. George Washington

Who was commissioned to sculpt a statue of George Washington?

• Benjamin Franklin
• Charles Willson Peale
• Thomas Jefferson
• Jean-Antoine Houdon

What was Thomas Jefferson's role in selecting the artist?

• He recommended Jean-Antoine Houdon
• He funded the project
• He personally sculpted the statue
• He delivered the statue to Virginia

Why was a European sculptor chosen for the task?

• Thomas Jefferson preferred European artists

• There was a lack of artistic talent in the United States

• To foster goodwill with England

• European sculptors were more affordable

Why did the Virginia General Assembly desire a statue of George Washington?

• To honor his military achievements
• To celebrate his birth
• To display in a public space
• To commemorate his presidency

What historical references are made in the statue?

• References to European art
• References to Greek mythology
• References to Roman dictators
• References to American folklore

What duality of George Washington is portrayed in the statue?

• His youth and his old age
• His role as a private citizen and a public soldier
• His military achievements and his political career
• His love for France and his loyalty to the United States

What historical references are made to Cincinnatus and Caesar in the statue?

• Cincinnatus represents Washington's military leadership and Caesar represents his political leadership
• Cincinnatus represents Washington's loyalty to the United States and Caesar represents his ambition
• Cincinnatus represents Washington's ambition and Caesar represents his loyalty to the United States
• Cincinnatus represents Washington's political leadership and Caesar represents his military leadership

What artistic choices did Jean-Antoine Houdon make in sculpting the statue?

• He used a toga as a symbol of power
• He depicted Washington in ancient Greek attire
• He portrayed Washington in contemporary clothing
• He created a larger-than-life-sized bronze statue

What is the significance of Houdon's statue of George Washington?

• It accurately depicts Washington's appearance
• It represents Washington as a god
• It symbolizes military might
• It celebrates Washington the man

Washington's contrapposto stance shows the influence of what prior culture?

• Classical Greco-Roman

• Byzantine

• Medieval

• Mesopotamian