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George Washington Fireback

  • Not on View

This French-made fireback celebrates recently elected George Washington. The stylized profile of Washington at the center is likely based on the 1778 “Voltaire” medal from Paris, which was designed by Benjamin Franklin and Voltaire without a reliable portrait as a reference. Words encircling Washington announce him as “G[eorge] Washington E[squire] General of the Contin[ental] Army in America.” The background includes symbols of military celebration including banners, laurel branches, and ribbons. Cast iron firebacks served both practical and aesthetic purposes. They were used to protect the back wall of a fireplace and reflect the heat back into the room but also provided decorative opportunity. 

Object Details

  • Fireback 
    France 
    ca. 1790 
    Iron 
    Museum of the American Revolution, Acquired through the generosity of the Collections Society 
    2025.16.01 

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