Early Life and Training
Thomas Gainsborough, a prominent English portrait and landscape painter, was born on May 14, 1727, in Sudbury, Suffolk. He was the youngest son of John Gainsborough, a weaver and maker of woollen goods. Thomas's early talent for drawing and painting led him to study art in London under engraver
Hubert Gravelot, eventually becoming associated with William Hogarth and his school.
Rise to Prominence
In 1746, Gainsborough married Margaret Burr, an illegitimate daughter of the Duke of Beaufort, who settled a £200 annuity on her. His work, initially focused on landscape paintings, didn't sell well, prompting him to return to Sudbury in 1748-1749 and concentrate on portrait painting. In 1752, he moved to Ipswich, where commissions for portraits increased, but his clientele mainly consisted of local merchants and squires.
Establishment in Bath
In 1759, Gainsborough and his family moved to Bath, where he studied portraits by
Anthony van Dyck. He began submitting works to the Society of Arts exhibition in London (now the Royal Society of Arts) in 1761 and to the Royal Academy's annual exhibitions from 1769. This exposure helped him gain a national reputation, leading to his invitation as a founding member of the
Royal Academy in 1769.
Artistic Style and Legacy
Gainsborough painted quickly, with his mature works characterized by a light palette and easy strokes. Despite being a prolific portrait painter, he gained greater satisfaction from his landscapes, crediting him (alongside Richard Wilson) as the originator of the 18th-century British landscape school.
- Notable Works:
- Museums Featuring His Work:
- Online Platforms Showcasing His Art:
Conclusion
Thomas Gainsborough's legacy as a master of British portraiture remains unparalleled. His influence on English art is evident in his numerous portraits and landscapes, which continue to inspire artists to this day. Visit
Gainsborough's House Museum, Sudbury, Canada, or explore his works online at
https://WahooArt.com/@/Thomas-Gainsborough to delve into the world of this 18th-century artistic genius.