Thomas Lawrence: Coming of Age

During his early years, Thomas Lawrence was recognized as a prodigy artist, gaining fame for his portraits in the Royal Academy's annual exhibition. This book explores his self-image as a genius, the influence of Bath's cultural life on his development, the rapid growth of his painting technique in London, and his use of celebrity and print media to enhance his reputation. The portraits from this period capture British high society, including notable figures such as the Duchess of Devonshire, Emma Hamilton, and actresses Sarah Siddons and Elizabeth Farren, as well as political leaders and members of the Bluestocking circle. The book accompanies a major exhibition at the Holburne Museum in Bath and features previously unpublished works and some of Lawrence's most renowned masterpieces.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 112 pages
Publication date: 01 October 2020
Publisher: Philip Wilson Publishers Ltd

This comprehensive survey spans the first twenty-five years of Lawrence's remarkable life, shedding light on his journey as an exceptional artist emerging during a transformative era in British art. Like his Renaissance predecessors Raphael, Michelangelo, and Dürer, Lawrence was hailed as a child prodigy from a young age. His artistic talents began to garner widespread recognition when he was featured in a scientific paper on the early manifestation of genius in children. Shortly thereafter, his family relocated to Bath, where the eleven-year-old Lawrence immersed himself in the task of capturing the likenesses of the fashionable visitors to the spa town. By 1790, Lawrence's striking portraits had achieved unparalleled acclaim, securing the top position in the annual exhibition of the Royal Academy, just days before his twenty-first birthday.

The book delves into various aspects of Lawrence's artistic development, exploring his self-perception as a prodigy, the profound influence of Bath's vibrant cultural scene on his formation, the rapid advancement of his painting technique after relocating to London, and his strategic use of celebrity, print media, and the Royal Academy to enhance his reputation. Special attention is paid to Lawrence's insightful portrayals of old age and his audacious celebrations of youthful vitality. His portraits from this period offer a captivating glimpse into British high society during a pivotal century, featuring notable figures such as the Duchess of Devonshire, Emma Hamilton, actresses Sarah Siddons and Elizabeth Farren, as well as political leaders, members of the Bluestocking circle, and members of the Royal Family.

In addition to the survey itself, the book is accompanied by a major exhibition at the Holburne Museum in Bath, showcasing previously unpublished works and some of Lawrence's most renowned masterpieces. This comprehensive volume provides a deep understanding of Lawrence's artistic journey, shedding light on his contributions to the world of art and his enduring legacy.

Weight: 504g
Dimension: 200 x 256 x 13 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781781300947