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3 unusual facts about James Thornhill


Giovanni Antonio Pellegrini

He submitted designs for the decorating the interior dome of the new St Paul's Cathedral, and is said to have been Christopher Wren's favourite painter, but did not win the commission, losing out to Sir James Thornhill.

Hanbury Hall

A notable feature of Hanbury Hall is the painting of the staircase, hall ceiling, and other rooms by the English painter Sir James Thornhill.

John Smybert

He studied under Sir James Thornhill at his academy, then travelled to Edinburgh and Europe seeking work as portraitist.


Antonio Verrio

Verrio influenced younger artists such as Louis Laguerre and James Thornhill, and his Hampton Court Palace frescoes (now under the care of Historic Royal Palaces) constitute a priceless legacy.


see also