Thomas Parkinson (painter) facts for kids
Thomas Parkinson was a talented British artist born in Oxford, England, on December 10, 1744. He lived until about 1789. Thomas Parkinson became a student at the famous Royal Academy art school in 1772, where he learned and improved his painting skills.
His Famous Paintings
Thomas Parkinson was especially known for painting actors and scenes from plays. He also regularly painted portraits of people. His artwork was shown at important art exhibitions like the Free Society of Artists in 1769 and 1770. He also exhibited his paintings at the Royal Academy from 1773 to 1789.
Some of his portraits were turned into prints by other artists. These included:
- William Balmain (engraved by Richard Earlom)
- William Woodfall (engraved by Isaac Jehner)
- Jonathan Britain (engraved by John Raphael Smith)
He also created many paintings of theatrical scenes. Some of these famous works include:
- Mr. Weston in the character of Billy Button in the "Maid of Bath" (shown in 1772)
- Mr. Shuter, with Mr. Quick and Mrs. Green, in a scene from "She stoops to conquer" (engraved by Robert Laurie in 1776)
- A Scene from Cymon (shown at the Royal Academy in 1773)
- A Scene from The Duenna (shown at the Royal Academy in 1774)
- Garrick led off the Stage by Time with Tragedy and Comedy (engraved by Robert Laurie in 1779)
Many of Parkinson's smaller paintings of actors were also made into prints. Some of his original drawings are now kept in the Burney collection at the British Museum. This collection has many theatrical portraits.
