The Making of a Masterpiece: Winds of Change Phase 5

Winds of Change

Washington at Valley Forge, March 4, 1778

I have used the light streak of the setting sun to create a maximum of contrast against the black of Washington’s hat to take the eye to the center of interest, George Washington. The line-up of the troops behind von Steuben forms a visual arrow with the point leading the eye to Washington, as does the broken limb in the right foreground. In the far background can be seen the stumps of all the trees needed to build the cabin city, as well as heat it.    – Mort Künstler

Mort’s depiction of Washington is in keeping with the personal observations of his peers. Thomas Jefferson described him on a horse as follows: "His person, you know, was fine, his stature exactly what one would wish, his deportment easy, erect, and noble. He was the best horseman of his age and the most graceful figure that could be seen on horseback."

This limited edition print is now available for purchase: http://bit.ly/1Lh3loL