Description
This print reproduces George Graham’s mezzotint of John Adams as president, holding a paper labeled Federal Constitution, a sword at his hip. The National Portrait Gallery holds an impression. Shop and catalog dates include 1798. Christie’s and print literature place publication in Philadelphia about 1797 to 1800, possibly tied to the XYZ crisis or the 1800 campaign. The Temple of Fame appears on a hill. The verse hails Adams as protector of freedom founded on the laws.
Graham was an American engraver active from the 1780s. This full-length is not John Trumbull’s White House Collection bust of about 1792 to 1793, sold separately here, and not Gilbert Stuart’s later oil. Adams stands as the constitutional president, a rare mezzotint type. Stauffer numbered the plate 1160. Surviving impressions are few.
This listing is a contemporary reproduction of the historic print, not an original impression. Choose fine art paper, luster photo paper, or mounted canvas.
