Thomas Rowlandson 1756-1827

A London artist educated at the Royal Academy school from 1772 Rowlandson had an obvious talent, which led to the award of a silver medal in 1777

Rowlandson travelled the continent extensively and spent a good deal of time in Paris with family. He received an inheritance from and aunt in 1789 which he is reputed to have gambled away.

Rowland is closely associated with the work he did for Ackerman especially the Dr Syntax drawings. This work was punctuated with further visits to the continent.

His best work are the intricate drawings of real life, the watering of horses, life in London or grotesque figures. His most accessible work are his political lampoonings of the figures of the day.

Rowlandson is on of the 18th/19th cent greatest artists and with pen and ink probably the very best. His work hangs in all of the best public collections and is closely collected privately.