American painter and illustrator Marc Burckhardt has created two portraits for the United States Postal Service’s Figures of the American Revolution, a commemorative stamp collection marking the 250th anniversary of American independence.
The portraits depict Thaddeus Kosciuszko and Baron von Steuben, two European-born figures who played important roles in the American Revolutionary War. They appear among 25 individuals recognised in the stamp collection, which brings together military leaders, political figures and lesser-known contributors to the struggle for independence.
The collection was issued on 10 April 2026, with the first-day-of-issue ceremony taking place in Washington, DC.
Two figures in the American Revolution
Baron von Steuben, a Prussian military officer, is remembered for his work training and reorganising the Continental Army, helping establish the military discipline and organisation that became essential to the American cause.
Thaddeus Kosciuszko was a Polish military engineer who became an important figure in the American Revolutionary War, contributing his expertise in fortification and military engineering.
A traditional painting technique
For both portraits, Marc employed a modified Flemish painting technique, beginning with an acrylic underpainting before building up layers of oil paint to develop colour, depth and detail. The portraits were painted on panel.
The approach reflects Marc’s longstanding interest in historical painting techniques and his ability to bring traditional methods into contemporary illustration commissions.
For Marc, the commission carried a particular personal connection. Both men were immigrants who committed themselves to the principles of a country they had chosen to serve.
“It was a tremendous honor to paint portraits of Thaddeus Kosciuszko and Baron von Steuben,” Marc says. “Both men represent the spirit that makes this nation unique: immigrants committed to principles they were willing to fight for.”
Von Steuben held particular meaning for Marc. Born in Germany to an American mother and German father, Marc shares a dual heritage that deepened his connection to the Prussian officer.
Marc Burckhardt
A former instructor at the School of Visual Arts in New York and Texas State University, Marc was named Texas State Artist by the Texas Legislature and the Texas Commission on the Arts.
His work has been commissioned by Gucci, Porsche, Amazon, TIME, Rolling Stone, The New York Times and Random House. His numerous honours include the Hamilton King Award, Gold and Silver Medals from the Society of Illustrators, a Cannes Lion and a Grammy Award for The Legend: Johnny Cash.
The Figures of the American Revolution collection brings together 25 newly commissioned portraits by 12 artists, with Marc’s contributions recognising two individuals whose commitment and service helped shape the history of the United States.
