James Fellowes (artist) facts for kids
James Fellowes was a British artist who painted portraits, mainly active between 1710 and 1730. He was known for capturing the likeness of important religious figures of his time.
Who Was James Fellowes?
James Fellowes was a talented portrait painter from Britain. He lived and worked in the early 1700s. During this time, it was common for wealthy or important people to have their portraits painted. Fellowes became well-known for his skill in painting detailed and lifelike pictures of people.
Famous Paintings by Fellowes
Fellowes created many portraits of important religious leaders. These paintings helped people remember what these figures looked like. Some of his notable works include:
- A portrait of Thomas Wilson, who was a bishop.
- A painting of Laurence Howell, another religious leader.
- A portrait of Humphrey Gower, who was the head of St John's College, Cambridge.
The 'Last Supper' Painting Controversy
One of Fellowes' most famous paintings was a large picture called 'The Last Supper'. This painting was placed in the Church of St Mary in Whitechapel, London. It became very well-known, but also caused a big stir!
The church's leader, Dr. Richard Welton, asked Fellowes to paint it. In the painting, Dr. Welton wanted to show a famous religious figure, Dr. White Kennett, as Judas Iscariot. Judas is known as the disciple who betrayed Jesus. Fellowes made sure the portrait of Dr. Kennett looked very much like him.
This made many people upset, especially Dr. Kennett's supporters. They thought it was wrong to show a living person as Judas. Because of the complaints, the Bishop of London ordered a change. The part of the painting showing Dr. Kennett as Judas had to be altered. Even with the change, the painting stayed in the church for people to see.
