Tittle, Walter "Lady Washington's Levee"

Walter Tittle (1883-1966). "Lady Washington's Levee." From the portfolio The Bicentennial Pageant of George Washington.

George Washington Memorial Association, 1932. 13 3/4 x 10. Etching. Signed in pencil.

Both President and Mrs. Washington hosted levees (receptions) to make themselves accessible to diplomats, others in government and to the public in a dignified atmosphere. There were plenty of critics, ascribing to the events the trappings of royalty. However, these receptions were continued by President and Mrs. Adams, before being abandoned when Thomas Jefferson took office.

From a suite of 20 etchings illustrating events in Washington’s life, edited by John Taylor Arms and Harry A. Ogden, New York. Plates printed by Henry E. Carling, London, England. Edition 1000. Plates cancelled. Paper watermarked “GW” in circle at lower right, with Washington’s coat of arms (shield, crown, and eagle) at upper left.