Joshua Reynolds

Sir Joshua Reynolds (1723–1792) was a prominent English painter, best known for his portraits of the British elite and nobility. He played a key role in establishing portraiture as a respected art form. As the first president of the Royal Academy of Arts in London, Reynolds greatly influenced the direction of British art through his advocacy for classical principles and the study of old masters. His works are characterized by a naturalistic style and a focus on capturing the personality of his subjects, making him a central figure in 18th-century British art history.