James Barry
1741-1806
James Barry was Irish Neo -classical painter, best remembered for his six part series of paintings entitled "The Progress of Human Culture" in the Great Room of the Royal Society of Arts. He is also noted for being one of the earliest romantic painters working in Britain. He was one of the most important Irish Neoclassical artists who had also a profound influence on William Blake.
James Barry was born in Cork, Ireland. About the age of seventeen he first attempted oil-painting. The painting that first brought him into public notice, and gained him the acquaintance and patronage of Edmund Burke, was founded on an old tradition of the landing of St Patrick on the sea-coast of Cashel, and of the conversion and Baptism of the King of Cashel.
In early 70's he produced pictures of classical subjects. His fondness for Greek costume was assigned by his admirers as the cause of his reluctance to paint portraits. He also painted classical and historical subjects.
In 1774 Barry and other artists were proposed to ornament the Great Room of the Society for the Royal Society of Arts, in London's Adelphi. This proposal was rejected by the artists. But in 1777 Barry made an offer to paint the whole on condition that he was allowed the choice of his subjects. His offer was accepted. He finished the series of pictures after seven years to the satisfaction of the members of the society, who granted him two exhibitions. The series of six paintings "The progress of human knowledge and culture" has been described as "Britain's late, great answer to the Sistine Chapel".
Soon after his return from the continent Barry had been chosen a member of the Royal Academy of Arts, and in 1782 he was appointed professor of painting in the room of Mr Penny.
On 22nd February 1806 he died.
|
|
