When I first looked at George Washington by Horatio Greenough, my first thought was that it was Roman art! Horatio Greenough's George Washington is a unique piece that closely resembles many Roman sculptures you may have seen, but on the shoulders of the statue appears the signature non-smiling, tightly clenched face of George Washington. From the neck down, you would never think that this sculpture was not created to the liking of our first President George Washington, but rather to that of a god like Jupiter. With his exposed bare chest and chiseled muscles, you'd think George Washington was a statue of god if his face wasn't so recognizable. With its determined face, raised eyebrows and eyes that always look at you from any angle, this statue surely catches your attention. I first noticed in George Washington by Horatio Greenough, that George Washington was not dressed in mid-17th century attire. Although he wears his signature pulled back and curled hairstyle, instead of wearing a suit he is seen wearing a toga. Covering his lower half when resting and draped over his right arm, it looks like it should be holding a discussion in a Roman Senate, not the Confederation Congress. His open, bare chest is a sign of strength, most of his body has strong definition and strong muscular contours. On her feet are sandals, and not closed boots, which are in fashion at the moment. Just by looking at his attire, you can see that Greenough's art imitates that of Roman culture. At the time this sculpture was commissioned in 1832, such wearing of topless drapery was not popular, as modesty was favored in those religious times. You can see that he is seated on a marble throne decorated with more revealing images of individuals in chariots or young...... middle of paper ...... Washington by Horatio Greenough to be a beautiful Roman inspired artwork. Although it was not liked when it was released due to its scandalous appeal, I believe the main message was distorted and missed. George Washington was a god among men, as evidenced by his creation and founding of the United States of America. He stood for the freedom and rights of the American people, this sculpture symbolizes him in an art form that was simply not appreciated at the time. However, I think the piece is beautifully done and I see what the artist's message was without the inscription. Greenough wishes to give thanks to George Washington by showing him as strong and divine as his accomplishments were. That he was like Jupiter in the way he commanded his people. That the American people were not limited but free to their own potential through the actions of a God-like man.