In 1894, illustrator George W. Breck drew many Members of Congress for profiles in Harper’s Weekly. This sketch of Richard Parks Bland, a powerful proponent of currency reform, is one of the series’ finest images. Breck studied at the Art Students League in New York and then at the American Academy of Fine Arts in Rome. His work as a mural painter brought him widespread popularity in the early 20th century.
History, Art & Archives, U.S. House of Representatives, “Hon. Richard Parks Bland,” https://history.house.gov/Collection/Listing/2009/2009-048-004/ (June 28, 2022)
Office of the Historian
Office of Art and Archives
Attic, Thomas Jefferson Building
Washington, D.C. 20515
(202) 226-1300