A portrait of William Blake, displayed at the Royal Academy in 1807, remains one of the most recognizable works by the British painter Thomas Phillips. Born in Dudley in 1770, he transitioned from early training in glass painting to becoming a prominent portraitist of the nineteenth century, securing a reputation among the era's scientists, writers, and explorers.
Early Career and Education
Phillips began his professional life in Birmingham, where he learned glass painting under Francis Eginton. Upon moving to London in 1790, he received an introduction to Benjamin West, which led to work on the stained-glass windows of St George's Chapel at Windsor. In 1791, he enrolled as a student at the Royal Academy. His initial exhibition submissions, starting in 1792, focused on narrative subjects such as the Death of Talbot, Earl of Shrewsbury, at the Battle of Castillon and Elijah restoring the Widow's Son.
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Following 1796, Phillips shifted his focus toward portrait painting, entering a competitive market alongside peers like Thomas Lawrence, John Hoppner, William Owen, and Martin Archer Shee. He attained professional recognition in 1804 when he was elected an associate of the Royal Academy. By 1808, he had advanced to the status of a royal academician, presenting Venus and Adonis as his diploma work. His output included high-profile sitters such as the Prince of Wales, Lord Byron, Sir Joseph Banks, and the poet George Crabbe.
Academic and Academic Leadership
In 1825, Phillips succeeded Henry Fuseli as the professor of painting at the Royal Academy. To prepare for this role, he traveled through Italy and Rome, accompanied by Sir David Wilkie and William Hilton. He held this position until 1832 and subsequently published his Lectures on the History and Principles of Painting in 1833. Throughout his life, he resided at 8 George Street, Hanover Square, where he remained until his death on 20 April 1845.
Contributions to the Arts
Beyond his studio work, Phillips engaged in broader institutional responsibilities. He served as a fellow of the Royal Society and the Society of Antiquaries. He also co-founded the Artists' General Benevolent Institution alongside figures such as J.M.W. Turner and Sir Francis Chantrey.
Fast facts
- Born: 1770, Dudley
- Died: 1845, London
- Education: Royal Academy of Arts
- Notable role: Professor of painting at the Royal Academy
- Professional affiliations: Royal Society, Society of Antiquaries
- Spouse: Elizabeth Fraser of Fairfield
- Notable pupils: John William Wright
Questions readers ask
What subjects did Thomas Phillips paint besides portraits?
Early in his career, he focused on historical and mythological scenes, including works titled Death of Talbot, Earl of Shrewsbury, at the Battle of Castillon, Ruth and Naomi, and Venus and Adonis.
Where is Thomas Phillips buried?
He was interred in the burial-ground of St. John's Wood chapel in London.
