A portrait not only depicts a specific sitter, but also often reflects the political culture of a time. David C. Ward, historian at the National Portrait Gallery, helps us read the Lansdowne portrait of George Washington to better understand the kind of society America was and the kind of society Americans wanted at the beginning of the republic.

This video series, "Explore with Smithsonian Experts," connects students and teachers with the skill and technique of Smithsonian experts who describe their work at our nation's museums. In each short film, experts introduce new ways to observe, record, research, and share, while using real artifacts and work experiences. Supports Common Core ELA standards.

Produced by the Smithsonian Center for Learning and Digital Access and Pearson Foundation