March 4th, 1756
Sir Henry Raeburn RA RSA FRSE (4 March 1756 – 8 July 1823) was a Scottish portrait painter. He served as Portrait Painter to King George IV in Scotland
Sir Henry Raeburn (1756-1823) was a prominent Scottish portrait painter known for his distinctive style and contributions to portrait art in the late 18th and early 19th centuries. Born in Stockbridge, near Edinburgh, Raeburn displayed an early talent for art, which led to his apprenticeship with a goldsmith. However, his passion for painting soon became evident, leading him to pursue a career as a portrait artist.
Raeburn’s work is characterized by its insightful depiction of subjects, masterful use of light and shadow, and the ability to capture the personality and essence of the people he painted. His portraits often conveyed a sense of intimacy and immediacy, making them highly sought after by the Scottish elite of his time. Raeburn’s subjects included many notable figures from Scottish society, such as intellectuals, politicians, and members of the aristocracy.
In 1784, Raeburn visited Italy, where he was influenced by the works of the Old Masters, further refining his technique and style. Upon returning to Edinburgh, he established himself as the leading portrait painter in Scotland. His reputation and success continued to grow, and his influence extended beyond Scotland to the wider British art scene.
In 1812, Raeburn was elected a member of the Royal Academy, and in 1822, he was knighted by King George IV, becoming Sir Henry Raeburn. This recognition was a testament to his significant contributions to British art and his status as one of the leading portraitists of his time.
Raeburn’s legacy is preserved in the collections of major museums and galleries around the world, including the Scottish National Gallery in Edinburgh, the National Portrait Gallery in London, and the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York, among others. His work continues to be celebrated for its artistic excellence and its role in documenting the cultural and social history of Scotland during his lifetime.
