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Printing Plate of Harry Lee Portrait

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Prints

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Original Engraved Printing Plate for Printing "Light Horse Harry Lee" from the National Portrait Gallery Book

(HENRY "LIGHT HORSE HARRY" LEE), Engraved Metal Printing Plate of Revolutionary War Commander; Governor of Virginia; and the Father of Robert E. Lee.
This is the original metal engraving plate used by the National Portrait Gallery for their prints of "Light Horse Harry" Henry Lee, 9.5" x 6.5", Choice Very Fine. This plate was used to make the engravings in the volumes of the "National Portrait Gallery of Distinguished Americans," which held engravings and biographies of Americans who were important in the history of the country. It comes in an original cover wrapper with a later identification tag reading "H Lee = Vol. 2". The first series was published in 1830 and honored men such noted famous Americans as George Washington and Patrick Henry. In 1799, Henry Lee eulogized George Washington with words which became famous: "First in war, first in peace, and first in the hearts of his countrymen." This plate remains in exceptional near New, clean and unmarked quality, that would allow it to see continued actual use if so desired.



"Light Horse Harry" Lee was a brilliant commander of cavalry during the Revolutionary War. After the War, he served in the Virginia legislature and the Continental Congress, then as Governor of Virginia from 1792-95. He was vital in suppressing the Whisky Rebellion in Pennsylvania in 1794, and from 1799-1801 was a member of the House of Representatives. In 1799, he eulogized Washington with words which became famous: "First in war, first in peace, and first in the hearts of his countrymen."

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