James Latham (painter) facts for kids
James Latham (born around 1696 – died January 26, 1747) was a very talented Irish artist. He was famous for painting amazing portraits of people.
The Life of James Latham
James Latham was born in a town called Thurles in County Tipperary, which was part of the Kingdom of Ireland back then. He loved art from a young age.
To get even better at painting, James went to study in Antwerp from 1724 to 1725. While there, he became a "Master" of the Guild of St Luke. This was like joining a special club for artists, showing he was really skilled!
Back in Dublin
James Latham returned to Dublin by 1725. He might have also visited England in the 1740s. Other famous artists like Joseph Highmore, Charles Jervas, and William Hogarth influenced his work during this time.
People admired his paintings so much that one writer, Anthony Pasquin, even called him "Ireland's Van Dyck." This was a huge compliment, comparing him to a very famous painter named Anthony van Dyck! James Latham passed away in Dublin on January 26, 1747.
James Latham's Artworks
Many of James Latham's beautiful portraits are kept safe in the National Gallery of Ireland in Dublin. These paintings help us remember important people from the past.
- One famous painting is of Charles Tottenham. He was a Member of Parliament (MP), which means he helped make laws for the country. This painting is often called "Tottenham in his Boots."
- Another portrait shows Bishop Robert Clayton and his wife, Katherine. Bishops are important religious leaders.
In 1947, the Tate Gallery in London bought Latham's portrait of Sir Capel Molyneux. This happened 200 years after James Latham had passed away, showing how his art was still valued!
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