President Andrew Jackson

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Powers skillfully portrayed President Jackson draped in a Greek toga, yet carefully preserved his rugged features, showcasing both the vogue for classical sculpture and America's penchant for an authentic likeness. He was concerned that Jackson seemed as though he had set aside his teeth, but took pride in capturing the hero's unwavering firmness and unshakeable character. Jackson sat calmly for his portrait, engaging in conversation with Powers while puffing on a pipe that he later gave to the sculptor as a keepsake. In 1835, when this portrait was cast, Jackson was busy planning to transform Washington from a soggy town into an impressive neoclassical capital that would mirror the nation's grand ambitions. The following year, the President laid the cornerstone for the Patent Office Building in which this sculpture is now proudly displayed.