The Great Artists: The English Masters: Reynolds

Considered one of the most important and influential 18th century English portraitists, Sir Joshua Reynolds was knighted in recognition of his genius. Deeply inspired by the Old Masters during an artistic pilgrimage to Italy, he incorporated their influence into a style of English portraiture never seen before dubbed "The Grand Style". It made him rich, and his many portraits of wealthy men, women, and especially children, remain an English national treasure.