Early Life and Training

James Ward, a renowned British painter, was born on October 23, 1769, in London, United Kingdom. He was the younger brother of William Ward, an engraver, and was influenced by various artists, but his career is conventionally divided into two periods: until 1803, his single greatest influence was his brother-in-law George Morland; from that time, it was Rubens.

Artistic Style and Notable Works

James Ward's singular style and great skill set him above most of his contemporaries, markedly influencing the growth of British art. Regarded as one of the great animal painters of his time, James produced history paintings, portraits, landscapes, and genre. One of his best-known paintings, The Deer Stealer, was commissioned in 1823 for the sum of 500 guineas by Ward's patron Theophilus Levett.

Notable Commissions and Exhibitions

• Gordale Scar (Tate, London), completed in 1814 or 1815, depicting Gordale Scar (Yorkshire) as an example of the sublime, is considered his masterpiece and a masterpiece of English Romantic painting.
• Theophilus Levett hunting at Wychnor, Staffordshire (1817), a portrait of one of Ward's patrons, Theophilus Levett.
• The Reverend Thomas Levett and his favourite dogs, cock-shooting (1811), another notable work featuring the Levett family.

Museums and Collections

• Tate Britain (London, United Kingdom) - features several of Ward's works, including Gordale Scar.
• Yale Center for British Art (New Haven, Connecticut, USA) - has an extensive collection of Ward's artwork, including portraits of the Levett family.

Legacy and Influence

James Ward was admitted for membership into the Royal Academy in 1811. His influence on British art is undeniable, with his unique style and skill setting him apart from his contemporaries. He continued to work until a stroke in 1855 ended his career, and he passed away in poverty on November 17, 1859. Recommended Reading:

• James Ward (WahooArt) - a comprehensive collection of Ward's artwork.
• James Ward (English artist) (Wikipedia) - a detailed biography and analysis of Ward's artistic style.