Stephen Francis Dutilh Rigaud facts for kids
Stephen Francis Dutilh Rigaud (born in London on December 26, 1777, and died in 1861) was an English painter. He was known for his historical and classical paintings.
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About Stephen Rigaud's Life
His Early Years and Art Training
Stephen Rigaud was the only son of another artist, John Francis Rigaud. He was born at 44 Great Titchfield Street in London. Stephen was named after his godfather, Stephen Peter Rigaud, but they were not close relatives.
His father taught him to be an artist from a young age. In 1792, Stephen was accepted as a student at the famous Royal Academy in London. This was a big step for young artists.
Becoming a Professional Artist
Stephen quickly showed his talent. In 1794, he won the silver palette award from the Society of Arts for a painting of a classical group. A few years later, in 1799, he won the gold palette from the same society for a historical painting. His biggest award came in 1801 when he won the gold medal from the Royal Academy. This was for his historical painting called Clytemnestra.
In 1798, Stephen went on a sketching trip with the Reverend Robert Nixon and the famous painter J. M. W. Turner. They explored Foot's Cray in Kent together. Stephen also helped his father with many large paintings in places like Packington and Windsor Castle.
In 1805, Stephen Rigaud became one of the first new members of the Old Society of Painters in Water-colours. This was a special group for artists who used watercolors. The society later closed for a short time in 1812, and Stephen left. However, in 1814, he joined a different watercolor society and showed his art there. He also exhibited his paintings at the British Institution and the Society of British Artists.
Later Life and New Beginnings
On January 1, 1808, Stephen Rigaud married Margaret Davies from Milford Haven. In 1817, because his wife was not well, he decided to stop working as a professional artist. They moved to Pembrokeshire in Wales for her health.
After his wife Margaret passed away on January 1, 1839, Stephen returned to London. He tried to restart his art career, but he did not have much success this time. Stephen Francis Dutilh Rigaud died in 1861 when he was 84 years old. He was buried in Abney Park cemetery and did not have any children.
What Stephen Rigaud Painted
Stephen Rigaud showed his drawings at the Old Society of Painters in Water-colours and his pictures at the Royal Academy and the British Institution. He painted many different kinds of subjects.
He created paintings based on religious stories, classical myths, and famous poems. Some of his works were inspired by writers like John Milton and the ancient tales of Ossian.
