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152 Color Paintings of John Singleton Copley: An American Portrait Painter (1738-1815)

Gus Hayes

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Published in 152 Color Paintings Of John Singleton Copley American Portrait Painter (1738 September 9 1815)

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John Singleton Copley was an American portrait painter who lived from 1738 to 1815. He is considered one of the most important artists of the American colonial period. Copley's paintings are known for their realism, attention to detail, and psychological depth. He painted a wide range of subjects, including portraits of prominent Americans, historical scenes, and religious subjects.

152 Color Paintings of John Singleton Copley - American Portrait Painter (1738 - September 9, 1815)

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Early Life and Career

Copley was born in Boston, Massachusetts, in 1738. He showed an early talent for art and began painting at a young age. In 1756, he traveled to London to study with the renowned portrait painter Joshua Reynolds. Copley spent seven years in London, where he developed his skills as a portrait painter.

Return to America

In 1763, Copley returned to America and settled in Boston. He quickly became one of the most sought-after portrait painters in the colonies. Copley painted portraits of many prominent Americans, including George Washington, John Hancock, and Samuel Adams.

Historical and Religious Paintings

In addition to portraits, Copley also painted historical and religious scenes. His most famous historical painting is "Watson and the Shark" (1778),which depicts the rescue of a young boy from a shark attack. Copley's religious paintings include "The Death of Major Peirson" (1784) and "The Deposition from the Cross" (1785).

Later Career

In 1783, Copley returned to London, where he lived for the rest of his life. He continued to paint portraits, but he also began to paint historical and religious scenes. Copley's later paintings are characterized by their grand scale and dramatic compositions.

Legacy

John Singleton Copley is considered one of the most important artists of the American colonial period. His paintings are known for their realism, attention to detail, and psychological depth. Copley's work has been exhibited in museums and galleries around the world.