Official records from his 1809 obituaries identified Paul Sandby as the father of modern landscape painting in watercolors. Born in Nottingham in 1731, though often cited as 1725, he navigated the professional demands of the military and the fine arts, eventually securing his status as a foundational figure in the British art establishment during the late eighteenth century.
Military Drafting and Early Scottish Work
Moving to London in 1745, Sandby joined his older brother, Thomas, in the military drawing department at the Tower of London. His duties involved designing fortifications and bridges. During this tenure, he documented the Scottish landscape following the rebellion, producing sketches of local events such as the 1751 execution of John Young in Edinburgh. His artistic output from this period included engravings, notably the West View of the City of Edinburgh.
Windsor and Artistic Reputation
Upon leaving his military post in 1751, Sandby resided with his brother, then the Deputy Ranger of Windsor Great Park. He produced numerous drawings of the castle and its surroundings, which were acquired by Sir Joseph Banks. Thomas Gainsborough noted Sandby’s technical prowess in 1764, remarking that he was the preeminent artist for capturing authentic natural views of the country.
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Beyond his watercolor contributions, Sandby was a prolific printmaker. He issued a collection of one hundred plates in 1765 and produced The Cries of London in 1760. His career also involved creating satirical works, including a series of caricatures targeting William Hogarth that began in 1753 and continued intermittently through 1762.
Establishment of the Royal Academy
Sandby held a long-standing role as chief drawing master to the Royal Military Academy at Woolwich from 1768 until 1799. As a founding member of the Royal Academy in 1768, he served as one of the 28 nominees selected by George III. He was an active participant in the institution, contributing to most of its exhibitions between 1769 and 1809 and frequently serving on the academy council.
Travels and Aquatints
Frequent sketching excursions across Britain and Ireland defined his later career. His interest in ancient monuments and scenery led him to Wales, with a significant 1773 tour alongside Sir Joseph Banks. This collaboration resulted in the 1775 publication of XII Views in South Wales and a follow-up series, ultimately forming a collection of 48 aquatint engravings focused on Welsh topography.
Fast facts
- Born: 1731, Nottingham
- Died: 7 November 1809, London
- Spouse: Anne Stogden
- Marriage Date: 3 May 1757
- Key Role: Chief drawing master, Royal Military Academy, Woolwich
- Founding Member: Royal Academy of Arts
- Primary Mediums: Watercolor, etching, aquatint
Questions readers ask
What was Sandby's official role at the Royal Military Academy?
He served as the chief drawing master from 1768 until 1799.
Where was he buried?
He was interred in the burial ground of St George's, Hanover Square, in London.
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