Phillip, JOHN, R.A.

Phillip, JOHN, R.A., was born, an old soldier's son, at Aberdeen on 19th April 1817. He was apprenticed to a painter and glazier, but in 1836 was sent by Lord Panmure to London, where he was ere long admitted to the schools of the Royal Academy. In 1839 he began to exhibit in the Academy Exhibition. Most of his early subjects were of Scotch character, such as a 'Scotch Fair' and 'Baptism in Scotland.' In 1851 he went to Spain in search of health. On his return he became noted as a painter of the habits and customs of the Spanish people, and was known as 'Spanish Phillip.' In 1853 he exhibited 'Life among the Gypsies at Seville.' His pictures for 1854-55, 'A Letter Writer of Seville' and 'El Paseo,' were purchased by the Queen. In 1857 he became A.R.A., in 1859 R.A. 'The Marriage of the Princess Royal' (1860) was a success, as was also the 'House of Commons,' containing upwards of thirty portraits of the leading members of both sides of the House. But his main triumphs were in Spanish subjects, such as 'La Gloria' (1864) and 'El Cigarillo' (1864). He twice again visited Spain, was in Italy in 1866, and died in London, 27th February 1867. His 'Early Career of Murillo' sold in 1895 for 3800 guineas. He was a great colourist, and his light effects were broad and strong.