Archibald Robertson (painter) facts for kids
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Archibald Robertson (born May 8, 1765 – died December 6, 1835) was a talented painter from Scotland. He ran an art school in New York called the Columbian Academy of Painting with his brother Alexander. Archibald was famous for his tiny portrait paintings. Soon after he arrived in the United States, he was asked to paint George and Martha Washington. He also created beautiful watercolor landscapes and engravings. In 1802, he published a book about drawing called Elements of the Graphic Arts.
Contents
Early Life and Family
Archibald Robertson was born in a place called Monymusk, near Aberdeen, Scotland. His birthday was May 8, 1765. His mother was Jean Ross. His father, William Robertson, was an architect and drew plans for buildings. Archibald was the oldest of three brothers who all became artists. His brothers were Alexander and Andrew.
Learning to Be an Artist
Archibald went to Marischal College in Aberdeen from 1782 to 1786. There, he studied art. After that, he continued his art studies in Edinburgh, Scotland.
In 1786, he moved to London, England, to learn from famous artists like Joshua Reynolds and Benjamin West. He also studied at the important Royal Academy of Arts.
His Art Career
After finishing his training in London, Archibald opened his own art school and studio in Aberdeen, Scotland. He became a very successful painter. He painted many portraits and especially small, detailed portraits called miniatures. He also made engravings, which are pictures created by carving designs into metal plates. Archibald often worked with his brother Alexander on projects like engravings.
In 1791, some wealthy people invited Archibald to come to the United States to teach art. This was a big opportunity! He was asked to paint portraits of the first President, George Washington, and his wife, Martha Washington.
His brother Alexander joined him in the United States in 1792. Together, they started the Columbian Academy of Painting in New York City. It was one of the very first art schools in the country. Later, this school was renamed the Academy of Painting, and Archibald continued to manage it. Alexander later opened his own art school in 1802.
Both Archibald and Alexander were very active in the art world in New York. They often showed their artwork in exhibitions. They also helped manage the American Academy of the Fine Arts (AAFA). Archibald joined the AAFA in 1817 and served on its board of directors for 15 years.
While living in New York, Archibald painted many watercolor landscapes. He loved to paint scenes of the Hudson River Valley and New York City. In 1802, he published his book, Elements of Drawing. This book shared his special way of teaching drawing to people who wanted to learn art as a hobby. His ideas were inspired by another artist named William Sawrey Gilpin.
Personal Life
In the United States, Archibald met Eliza Abramse. They got married in December 1794. He painted several portraits of her. He also taught Eliza how to paint with watercolors, and her artwork was even shown at the American Academy of Fine Arts. Archibald and Eliza had many children. Their son, Anthony Lispenard Robertson, became a lawyer and later a chief justice.
Death
Archibald Robertson passed away on December 6, 1835. He is buried at Green-Wood Cemetery in Brooklyn, New York.
Published Works
Archibald Robertson wrote and published these books:
- Elements of the Graphic Arts, published in 1802.
- On the Art of Sketching, a manuscript from around 1800.
- A book about the art of miniature painting.
Images for kids
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New York seen from Long Island, 1795
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New York St. Paul's Chapel, 1799
