Johann Zoffany German neoclassical artist Date of Birth: 13.03.1733 Country: Great Britain

1. Biography of Johann Zoffany
2. Discovering the Theater
3. Portraits of Royal Family Members
4. Recognition and Travels
5. Legacy and Death

Biography of Johann Zoffany

Johann Zoffany, a German neoclassical artist, spent the majority of his life working in England. His works are exhibited in many renowned British galleries, such as the National Gallery in London, Tate Gallery, and the Royal Collection in Oxford. He was born in Frankfurt and studied under Martin Speer in Regensburg, and later in Rome. In 1760, he collaborated with Januarius Zick on the decorations of the Trier Royal Palace. After returning to Regensburg, he married but had an unhappy marriage. Seeking an escape from his troubled family life, he moved to London in 1761.

Discovering the Theater

In London, Zoffany discovered painting inspired by the theater and, thanks to Benjamin Wilson, he became acquainted with the actor David Garrick. In 1762, he lived in Garrick's house and depicted him in his painting "The Return of the Farmer" (1762), which marked the beginning of his series of "conversation pieces" inspired by the theater and influenced by Hogarth. Zoffany continued this series until 1770, at the request of Garrick, who was concerned with self-promotion. He also executed several works on fantastical subjects and life-size portraits.

Portraits of Royal Family Members

In 1762, with the patronage of George III, Zoffany painted portraits of members of the royal family, including "The Prince of Wales and Prince Frederick as Cupids" (1765), "Queen Charlotte with Two Children" (1766), "George III with his Family" (1770), and "Queen Charlotte, Prince of Wales, and Duke of York" as well as "Princess Amelia".

Recognition and Travels

In 1769, Zoffany became a corresponding member of the Royal Academy and in 1772, his painting "The Anatomy Class at the Royal Academy" was immediately acquired by George III. In 1773, he traveled to Florence, where he painted the composition "The Tribuna of the Uffizi" (1776), and in 1779, he returned to England, stopping in Vienna along the way. As "conversation pieces" fell out of fashion, Zoffany created his masterpiece, the painting "Charles Townley in his Sculpture Gallery" (1782). From 1783 to 1789, he visited India, where he painted "Portrait of Warren Hastings with His Wife".

Legacy and Death

Aside from his theater-themed works, in which he remained one of the brightest masters, Zoffany's "conversation pieces" were also appreciated by the royal family. The paintings he created for George III introduced a free depiction of the aristocracy's family life into English painting. The series of portraits of the royal family is preserved in the royal collections. Zoffany passed away in Strand-on-the-Green, London.