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A precious, rarely seen drawing from George Washington’s collection stops in Philadelphia before auction

After more than a century in private collections, 'The Destruction of the Bastille' is estimated to sell for $500,000-$800,000.

Titled “The Destruction of the Bastille,” this ink-wash drawing on laid paper depicts the demolished Bastille prison in Paris, France, on Aug. 8, 1789, created by Étienne-Louis-Denis Cathala. The sketch is inscribed at the top by Gilbert du Motier, Marquis de Lafayette. The inscription reads: "From the M. de Lafayette to General Washington.” The inscription at bottom by the artist reads: "Cathala Architecte Inspecteur de la Bastille fait le 8 Aoust 1789." The drawing will be on display at the Museum of the American Revolution Aug. 1-31 before going up for auction.
Titled “The Destruction of the Bastille,” this ink-wash drawing on laid paper depicts the demolished Bastille prison in Paris, France, on Aug. 8, 1789, created by Étienne-Louis-Denis Cathala. The sketch is inscribed at the top by Gilbert du Motier, Marquis de Lafayette. The inscription reads: "From the M. de Lafayette to General Washington.” The inscription at bottom by the artist reads: "Cathala Architecte Inspecteur de la Bastille fait le 8 Aoust 1789." The drawing will be on display at the Museum of the American Revolution Aug. 1-31 before going up for auction.Read moreCourtesy of Freeman’s | Hindman