To the Genius of Franklin (Au Genie de Franklin),

1778

An accomplished etcher, Fragonard taught the technique to his young sister-in-law Marguérite Gérard, who executed this large print after his design. Published in 1778, it speaks to the celebrity of Founding Father Benjamin Franklin (1706–1790), who arrived in France in 1776 to serve as ambassador and whose visage subsequently appeared on everything from teacups to snuffboxes. This dramatic composition allegorizes Franklin as an Enlightenment hero, illustrating the Latin motto inscribed below the image—“He snatched lightning from the sky and the scepter from tyrants.” Alluding to his experiments with electricity, a Zeus-like Franklin banishes lightning with the help of Minerva, goddess of wisdom, while commanding Mars, god of war, to overthrow Avarice and Tyranny. The seated figure with a starry crown represents the united American colonies.