Happy birthday Ben! This portrait of Franklin was drawn and engraved by Michael Bisi in 1818. The practice of Latinizing names, as Bisi has done with Benjamin, was meant to make them seem more grandiose. Written in the bottom right corner of the portrait is “Per Dalla Libera,” which is incorrect Italian intended to translate as “In order to give freedom.” To celebrate Ben’s birthday, come take our Franklin & Jay Thematic Tour offered Thursday-Saturday at 2pm throughout January.