This allegorical painting depicts General George Washington resigning his commission as commander in chief of the Continental Army at Annapolis, Maryland on December 23, 1783. In the central panel, Washington is depicted laying his commission at the feet of Columbia, who is seated on her throne with a sword, cuirass and wearing a liberty cap. Opposite Washington is a female figure representing Maryland. Behind her the Goddess of War is seen sheathing her sword and Resistance to Oppression breaking her rod, while Prosperity bears a horn of plenty and Commerce, holds the caduceus. Seated near the throne is the figure of History. In the left panel are officers and troops presenting arms. In the right panel is a magistrate, an officer of the French and Revolutionary armies.

Emily Emerson Lantz, Murals Adorning Baltimore Courthouse, Art and Archaeology, vol. XIX, May-June 1925;
The Daily Record, Sunday January 10, 1903