Thomas Birch
American, 1779 - 1851
Thomas Birch (1779-1851) was a significant figure in early American marine painting. Born in London, he immigrated to the United States with his father, William Russell Birch, a miniature painter, in 1794. Settling in Philadelphia, they established the firm William Birch & Son, producing topographic views of the city.
Initially a portrait artist, Birch soon turned to marine and landscape painting, becoming known for his vivid depictions of naval battles from the War of 1812, informed by firsthand accounts. He also painted scenes in Bordentown, New Jersey, at the estate of Joseph Bonaparte, the exiled king of Naples.
Birch was elected to the Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Arts and served as its Keeper. Despite his recognition and admiration from contemporaries like Thomas Cole, he struggled with patronage and financial stability, passing away in relative obscurity in 1851. His works remain in prominent collections, including The Metropolitan Museum of Art and the Peabody Museum.
Initially a portrait artist, Birch soon turned to marine and landscape painting, becoming known for his vivid depictions of naval battles from the War of 1812, informed by firsthand accounts. He also painted scenes in Bordentown, New Jersey, at the estate of Joseph Bonaparte, the exiled king of Naples.
Birch was elected to the Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Arts and served as its Keeper. Despite his recognition and admiration from contemporaries like Thomas Cole, he struggled with patronage and financial stability, passing away in relative obscurity in 1851. His works remain in prominent collections, including The Metropolitan Museum of Art and the Peabody Museum.
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