Banknote motif with a girl's head derived from Leonardo da Vinci against a patterned band 1819 - 1837

Asher Brown Durand created this banknote motif with a girl's head derived from Leonardo da Vinci against a patterned band sometime in the 19th century. Durand was part of a generation of American artists who balanced their artistic aspirations with the demands of the market. His work designing banknotes reflects the economic realities of the time. The incorporation of a figure reminiscent of Leonardo da Vinci elevates the currency with the cultural capital of the Renaissance. This brings us to the question: What is the relationship between the fine arts and commerce? The image's visual codes borrow from the traditional artistic canon while adapting to the practical requirements of currency design. It would be interesting to learn more about the specific social and economic conditions that led to the use of such imagery on banknotes. It might be helpful to consult archives of American currency design from the 19th century.