Washington Crosses the Delaware

By: Emmanuel Leutze, 1851

Describe

George Washington and his army in a wooden boat crossing the icy Delaware are depicted by the use of primary colors, plastic and compound shapes, and actual line. Leutze creates depth in this painting with sharp and diminishing detail, size, and overlapping shape.

Analyze

Interpret

~ Washington's upright stance puts emphasis on him
~ Blue and gray color of water and sky unify piece
~ Use of bright red color adds variety from dreary colors
~ Movement of rushing waves
~ Indirect lighting suggests nighttime or a storm

This painting shows the hope that Washington needed to lead his army across the freezing Delaware river. Leutze uses the lighting and line to emphasize Geogre Washington who stands tall and brave in comparison to the suffering people paddling the boats.

Hope