Standing portrait of Lafayette as he speaks to the French National Assembly in an effort to get assistance for the Americans and their fight for independence. He is not dressed in a military uniform, but rather in a long coat, vest, boots, and wig. He carries a cape over his proper left arm and his proper left hand rests on a sword. He reaches out with his proper right arm as he takes a step forward with his proper left leg. The sculpture rests atop a square tiered base adorned with bronze figures on all four sides. On the south side of the base, there is the symbol of America, a bare-breasted female figure seated, but turned to reach up to the statue of Lafayette to offer him a sword she hold with her proper right hand. On the east side of the base are the figures of Comte d'Estaing and Comte de Grasse, commanders of the French naval forces sent to help the U.S. at Lafayette's request. A symbolic anchor rests at the foot of d'Estaing. Both figures are dressed in their military uniforms and stand side by side involved in a discussion. On the west side of the base are the figures of Comte de Rochambeau and the Chevalier du Portail, commanders of the French army forces sent to help the U.S. at Lafayette's request. A symbolic cannon rests at their feet. Both are dressed in military uniforms and are walking side by side. On the north side of the base are two cherubs kneeling below a cartouche inscribed with a thank you made by Congress to Lafayette for his assistance during the Revolution.

Save Outdoor Sculpture, District of Columbia survey, 1993

Source: Inventories of American Painting and Sculpture, Smithsonian American Art Museum, P.O. Box 37012, MRC 970, Washington, D.C. 20013-7012