Sir Joshua Reynolds

Born in Devon in 1723, Sir Joshua Reynolds became one of the most important painters in Britain. He built his reputation in London as a portraitist to writers, actors, politicians, and members of high society, creating images that were both flattering and vivid.

Reynolds was also a major force in the art world beyond his own studio. He was a founding member of the Royal Academy and served as its first president, and his public lectures on art had a lasting influence on British artistic taste and education.

Alongside his grand society portraits, he painted self-portraits and works inspired by classical and historical art. He died in 1792, but he remains a central figure in the story of British painting.