Born in North Kingston, now Narraganset, Rhode Island. Married Charlotte Coates May 10, 1786. They had 12 children. Stuart lived in Dublin, Ireland, 1787 to 1793. He returned to America and worked in Philadelphia 1794 to 1796. He painted George Washington three times. His unfinished painting of Washington is well known. He frequently left other portraits unfinished also. He moved to Boston in 1805 and died there in 1828.

Stuart is credited with the design of several U. S. coins in the 1796-1805 era.

Stuart appears on a 66mm medal (Julian PE-33). It is one of three commissioned by the American Art Union. Dies were by Charles Cushing Wright. A painting of Thomas Jefferson by Stuart was used as the basis for the engraving of Jefferson on the two dollar bill.

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