Joshua Reynolds’ credentials made him a splendid link between the old days and the new.
He was born and bred in Devon, yet trained in Italy and properly reverent of the heritage of Europe.
The portraits in which he specialized were at times penetrating, at times feats of silken flattery. As remarkable as his skill was his self-esteem. His soon-celebrated “Grand Style” of painting applied also to his mode of life.
Unlike other artists, he would not let himself be treated as a tradesman. His chosen habitat was the company of the illustrious. He was elected as the Academy’s first president–he was to occupy it pontifically for 32 years. He was knighted in 1769.
The World of Turner 1775-1851 -Time Life Books p. 13
One of his sisters was Mary Palmer (1716–1794), seven years his senior, author of Devonshire Dialogue, whose fondness for drawing is said to have had much influence on him when a boy. In 1740 she provided £60, half of the premium paid to Thomas Hudson, a portrait-painter, for Joshua’s pupilage, and nine years later advanced money for his expenses in Italy.
Learn more about Joshua Reynolds (1723 -1792)
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