Oil painting -> List of Painters -> William Dobson

Personal Details

William Dobson (1611-1646) was an English Baroque painter and one of the most important figures in the emergence of English painting in the 17th century. He was born in London and became a pupil of the Dutch painter, Sir Peter Lely, who was a major influence on his work. It is believed that Dobson had travelled to France in his early twenties and was exposed to the works of the great French masters of the time, such as Poussin and Le Brun.

Dobson's style was heavily influenced by the Flemish school, which was present in England during the 17th century. His works display the dramatic lighting and dramatic composition of the Flemish school, coupled with a naturalistic approach to the human figure. Many of his portraits depict his sitters in a dramatic and emotive manner, often using dramatic lighting and strong contrasts between light and shade to emphasise the subject's features.

Dobson was one of the first English painters to receive a royal commission and he was appointed as a court painter to Charles I in 1632. He was also the first English painter to be elected to the Royal Academy in 1635. During his years as court painter, Dobson was able to establish a reputation as a highly skilled portrait artist and was able to secure many prestigious commissions.

Dobson's works were highly sought after in his lifetime and he was able to produce a considerable number of paintings. He was particularly well-known for his group portraits and allegorical works, such as his painting 'The Apotheosis of James I'. This painting depicts James I as a classical deity, surrounded by figures representing the virtues of his reign.

Dobson's work was highly influential and he had a significant impact on the development of English painting. His works were highly praised by his contemporaries and he was one of the most highly regarded painters of his period. His influence can be seen in the works of many later English painters, such as Thomas Gainsborough, Joshua Reynolds and Thomas Lawrence.

William Dobson was a major figure in the emergence of English painting in the 17th century and his works remain highly influential today. His works demonstrate his skill as a painter and his ability to capture the mood of his sitters with a naturalistic approach. He was an important figure in the development of English painting and his influence can still be seen in the work of many contemporary painters.

Works Of William Dobson