Ed Vebell (American, 1921 - 2018) "George Washington Inaugurated" Signed lower right. Original Acrylic painting on Illustration Board. Provenance: Collection of James A. Helzer (1946-2008), Founder of Unicover Corporation. This painting is the original painting which was published on the Fleetwood George Washington Inaugurated Commemorative Cover postmarked April 30, 1980, the 150th Anniversary of Washington's Inauguration. There was a hush among the crowd as Robert Livingston, Chancellor of the State of New York, spoke the solemn words. George Washington, dressed in an American-made brown suit with a dress sword at his side, faithfully repeated the oath, his hand on the open Bible. As Livingston concluded, Washington added his own suffix, his voice strong and clear as he spoke, "So help me God." Livingston relaxed and smiled, declaring, "It is done!" Then, he turned to the multitudes, shouting, "Long live George Washington, President of the United States!" The crowd was suddenly alive with cheers of "God bless our president." The flag was raised high above Federal Hall in New York City where the oath had been taken, and gun salutes and church bells rang throughout the land. Washington was fifty-seven years old when he took the oath of office and the country he came to lead consisted of four million citizens. He had no previous experience in any public executive position other than as Commander in Chief of the Continental Army, and apologized in his inaugural speech for his "inferior endowments" in that respect. His speech, though not eloquent, called for unity and support, and thrilled the people with its humble devotion and sincere patriotism. Image Size: 20 x 22.25 in. Overall Size: 26.5 x 28.25 in. Unframed. (B06071)