When Charles Willson Peale painted his portrait in 1772, George Washington sported a variety of accessories to indicate his military status.
The sash across his chest, the sword at his side, the embellished cockade on his hat, and the silver gorget around his neck were all symbols of rank that any 18th-century viewer would recognize.
George Washington’s Military Sash
Made in England or America, ca. 1750–1775
In Peale’s 1772 portrait, George Washington wears a red officer’s sash—possibly this silk example, which descended in the family of Washington’s nephew.
Made using a technique called “sprang weaving,” silk sashes had enormous strength and could be used as stretchers to carry wounded officers off the battlefield.
The sash currently on display is a reproduction.
![Gift of John Pierpont Morgan, Jr., 1924 [W-87] (Photo: Thalia Romero)](https://mtv-drupal-assets.s3.amazonaws.com/files/styles/original/s3/callout/text-image-block-special-exhbiit/image/mdp-20200212-tr-038.jpg.webp?VersionId=Yun.2R_Fm.3eUJwXjYznI0O7K0ZXhjip&itok=KRXwlKft)
Gift of John Pierpont Morgan, Jr., 1924 [W-87] (Photo: Thalia Romero)
Silver Cockade Insignia
Probably made in America, ca. 1799
Inspired by British tradition, Washington suggested that all commissioned officers wear a black cockade adorned with a silver bald eagle symbol of the new republic.
learn moreGift of Elizabeth Slaymaker Kimball in memory of her aunt, Edith Peter, 1957 [W-2089] Conservation courtesy of the Life Guard Society of Historic Mount Vernon
Washington’s Smallsword
Made in London, England, ca. 1767–1768
Washington is believed to have worn this sword when he resigned his commission as Commander in Chief in Annapolis in 1783 and when inaugurated as our nation's first president.
learn moreGift of John Pierpont Morgan, Sr. 1909 [W-84] Conservation courtesy of the Life Guard Society of Historic Mount Vernon
Gorget
Possibly made in America, ca. 1776
Gorgets were worn about the neck by on-duty officers during the Revolutionary War. According to legend George Washington presented this one to Lieutenant Alexander Hume.
learn moreGift of Alexander Hume Ford and Mrs. Lewis Williams, 1926 [H-475]. Conservation courtesy of the Life Guard Society of Historic Mount Vernon