The County Election, George Caleb Bingham, 1852

Bingham’s iconic The County Election depicts a crowd of men gathered around a local polling place. The scene features serious election officials, a cheerful cider drinker, groups eagerly debating the candidates and even a man dragging an inebriated friend to the polls. With this work, the Missouri artist capitalized on the national fascination with politics as well as a widespread taste for active scenes of varied and contrasting characters.

Bingham was so pleased with The County Election that he decided to have it reproduced as a print. By offering the composition for sale in this affordable medium, he was able to broaden his audience and maximize his financial return on the work. Bingham took this painting on a multi-state publicity tour during which he sold subscriptions for the print.