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When Benjamin Franklin arrived in Paris in 1776, representing his now independent country, the fame of the septuagenarian as a scientist and statesman, philosopher and publicist, had spread throughout the Western World. Engravings, decorated plates, and miniatures in clay, porcelain, and plaster were nearly mass-produced. No wonder then that Jean-Antoine Houdon, whose works reads like an encyclopedia of the great names of the era, decided to create a portrait of Franklin, who was also his friend.

All items are packaged and shipped in our handcrafted, made in the USA, White House Gift Shop, est. 1946 presentation box. An official White House Gift Shop, est.1946 Certificate of Authenticity is included for each item in your order. Our certificates are great accompaniment for gift giving and collection purposes.