Allan Ramsay

1713 - 1784

Alan Ramsay
©2011 Gazetteer for Scotland

Artist. Born in Edinburgh, the son of Allan Ramsay (1686 - 1758) the poet. He studied under William Hogarth in London and travelled through Europe to Rome, which influenced his work. Returning to Edinburgh in 1738, he painted portraits and enjoyed Edinburgh society, making friends including David Hume (1711-76) and Adam Smith (1723-90). In London, he painted the portraits of Royalty and was so much in demand that he employed others such as Alexander Nasmyth (1758 - 1840) to assist him.

He died in Dover (England) and is buried in St. Marylebone churchyard (London).

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