Sir Joshua Reynolds
Sir Joshua Reynolds, (1723-92). British portrait painter. Reynolds studied the works of Raphael and Michelangelo in Rome and developed neoclassical theories of art that proved highly influential. A friend of Dr Johnson and Sheridan, he raised the prestige of artists in Britain. Reynolds became the first president of the newly formed Royal Academy in 1769, a post he held until his sight failed in 1789. He painted over 2000 portraits, including many of the leading figures of his time.
