Thomas Jefferson

undated

Portrait after Gilbert Stuart. Thomas Jefferson (1743-1826), third President of the United States, was born 13 April 1743 in Shadwell, Virginia, and graduated from William and Mary College in 1762. He was admitted to the Bar in 1767 and practiced law until 1774 when the courts were closed by the American Revolution. As a member of the Continental Congress, he was chosen to draft the Declaration of Independence. He later served in the Virginia legislature until his election as governor in 1779. He served as minister to France (1784-89), Secretary of State (1789-1783), Vice-president (1787-1801), and President (1800-09). He died at Monticello 4 July 1826, the 50th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence.

oil paint on panel with textured ground

21 x 16 3/4 in. (53.5 x 42.5 cm)

Bequest of the Artist

PA.058