A Young Greek Woman

Henry William Pickersgill, an eminent English portrait painter, was born in London on December 3, 1782, and passed away on April 21, 1875. His artistic journey began under the wing of George Arnald, a landscape artist, before he honed his skills at the Royal Academy Schools. Initially exploring landscapes and historical themes, Pickersgill found his true calling in portraiture, a domain where he would leave an indelible mark. Over his prolific career, he painted some of the most distinguished figures of the 19th century, including literary giants like William Wordsworth and Elizabeth Barrett Browning, as well as influential personalities such as the Duke of Wellington and Michael Faraday. His work is celebrated for its depth and elegance, with over 50 portraits housed in the National Portrait Gallery, London. Pickersgill's legacy extends beyond his art; he served as the Royal Academy's librarian from 1856 to 1864, contributing to the cultural and academic spheres of his time. His death at the age of 93 in London marked the end of an era, but his portraits continue to be a window into the lives of the notable figures he immortalized.