About the artist
Thomas Phillips (1770-1845) was an English portrait artist recognised for his depictions of celebrated intellectuals. Having started as an apprentice glass engraver in Birmingham, he relocated to London in 1790 and joined the Royal Academy Schools. He quickly discovered the profits of portraiture despite his initial interest in history painting. Over his extensive career, Phillips created over 700 portraits of notables like Brunel, Faraday, Byron, and four Royal Society presidents. In 1808, he joined the Royal Academy and served as its professor of painting from 1824 to 1832.
