Francis Milner Newton
(1720-1794), Portrait painterSitter in 4 portraits
Although Francis Newton worked as a professional portrait painter, his historical significance lies in the role he played in the formation and organisation of art institutions. He was involved in formulating the initial plans for a national academy of art, which culminated in 1760 in the first exhibition held by the artists of Great Britain in the gallery of the Society for the Encouragement of Arts, Manufactures, and Commerce. A number of schisms between the artists involved led to the formation of a new society, the Royal Academy of Arts, under the patronage of King George III. Newton was elected as its first secretary and he exhibited eight portraits at the Royal Academy from 1769 to 1774.
The Academicians of the Royal Academy
by John Sanders, after Johan Joseph Zoffany
watercolour and ink, 1773, based on a work of 1772
NPG 1437
Key to 'The Academicians of the Royal Academy'
by John Sanders, after Johan Joseph Zoffany
pencil, circa 1773
NPG 1437a
The Academicians of the Royal Academy
by Richard Earlom, after Johan Joseph Zoffany
mezzotint, published 1773
NPG D21304
by William Daniell, after George Dance
soft-ground etching, published 1 April 1803 (5 May 1793)
NPG D12089
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