Date: 1817
Watercolour on paper
Richard Westall

Museum No. OLNCN.2697

Richard Westall RA (1765-1836) was a friend of Sir Thomas Lawrence (1769-1830), President of the Royal Academy, with whom he shared a house at 57 Greek Street from 1790-95. A noted watercolourist, Westall initially trained under John Thompson, a heraldic silver engraver, before entering the Royal Academy schools in 1785, becoming a Royal Academician in 1794.

He illustrated several early editions of Cowper's poems. Westall was a prolific illustrator of Milton, Gray, Crabbe and numerous scenes from Shakespeare. He illustrated an edition of the Bible and also wrote his own poetry.

Westall's larger works were generally historical scenes although he also painted portraits, including those of Lord Byron, 1813 (National Portrait Gallery) and Queen Victoria, 1830 (Royal Collection) to whom he acted as drawing master from 1827 until his death.