The painters to the Royal Court in London have played a significant role in creating and preserving the visual history of the British monarchy. These painters were appointed to capture important events, portraits of monarchs, and other members of the royal family. Some notable painters to the Royal Court include:
Charles I with M. de St Antoine, Oil on canvas, Royal Collection, Buckingham Palace, London
- Sir Anthony van Dyck: A Flemish Baroque painter, van Dyck was a prominent portraitist during the 17th century. He was the leading court painter to King Charles I of England and is known for his elegant and expressive portraits of the royal family.
The Two Sons of the Earl of Talbot, 1793, Neue Pinakothek
Sir Thomas Lawrence: Active in the late 18th and early 19th centuries, Lawrence was appointed as the official portraitist to King George III. He painted numerous portraits of the British royal family, including King George IV and Queen Victoria.
A Favourite Greyhound of Prince Albert, 1841
Sir Edwin Landseer: An English painter, Landseer was known for his animal paintings. He often depicted animals in human-like poses and settings, and he gained royal favor during the 19th century for his ability to capture the personalities of pets belonging to Queen Victoria.
Lady Agnew of Lochnaw, National Galleries of Scotland
John Singer Sargent: Although an American artist, Sargent was a renowned portrait painter who had strong ties to the British aristocracy. He painted portraits of various members of the British royal family, including Edward VII and George V.
These painters have left behind a visual legacy that provides insights into the lives, appearances, and personalities of British monarchs and their families throughout different historical periods.