The Effect of Principle, Behold the Man (Handkerchief)
c. 1806
Cotton, plain weave; copperplate printed
25.4 × 28 cm (10 × 11 in)
SEE IT IN PERSON
Not currently on view
In the collection of Art Institute of Chicago, Chicago · as of July 2026
Discussion
FROM THE ART INSTITUTE OF CHICAGO’S CATALOG
This handkerchief commemorates George Washington (1732–1799) and includes his resignation speech from September 19, 1796. The figure of Washington is based on a painting of the president by Gilbert Stuart, which was commissioned by Senator William Bingham of Pennsylvania in 1796. Printed handkerchiefs of this period often record events and individuals, and they were often displayed rather than used. This handkerchief is attributed to the successful calico printer John Hewson of Philadelphia.
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