Celebrating the 50th Anniversary of "The Prayer at Valley Forge"

Since its creation in 1975 for America’s bicentennial celebration in 1976, The Prayer at Valley Forge by Arnold Friberg has become one of the most recognizable paintings in American history.

Friberg’s painting is a poignant portrayal of General George Washington during one of the most critical moments in the American Revolution. In the harsh winter of 1777–78, amid the immense hardships faced by the Continental Army at Valley Forge, Pennsylvania, Washington is depicted kneeling in a moment of solitary prayer, seeking guidance and strength from God. This moment has been depicted by other artists, but never as remarkably as this original work by Arnold Friberg.

Friberg spent his decades-long career memorializing important people and events throughout American and world history. He was nominated for an Academy Award for his pre-visualization artwork and costuming on the epic motion picture The Ten Commandments with Cecil B. DeMille and, among other honors, was commissioned to paint equestrian portraits of the Prince of Wales (now King Charles III) and Queen Elizabeth II.

This item is on loan courtesy of First Freedom Art Company, an impact-driven company dedicated to educating others about the importance of the freedoms of religion and speech—America’s first freedoms.

We’re celebrating The Prayer at Valley Forge’s 50th anniversary. Over the course of the year, check back to learn more about the painting’s impact, come see it at Museum of the Bible, and join us for more special events focused on this pivotal painting.