the order prior to the artist's 1793 departure for the United States. Stuart lived and worked in New York City for a year and a half before moving to Philadelphia in November 1794. He informed his uncle in Philadelphia of his upcoming arrival: "The object of my journey is only to secure a picture of the President, & finish yours."

Philadelphia served as the temporary national capital from 1790 to 1800 - while Washington, D.C. was under construction. Stuart was introduced to the President in December