Washington Allston
Washington Allston, Self Portrait. 1805.
"Samuel Morse's very lofty conception of what art can be came from Allston."
-Interview with Lance Mayer, Conservator of the 'Gallery of the Louvre'
Artist Washington Allston heavily influenced Morse’s painting style. Allston encouraged Morse to transition from portrait painting to historical painting.
"One of my greatest blessings here is Mr. Allston. He has been the means of giving me more knowledge in my art than I could have acquired by myself in three years."
- Samuel F.B. Morse, August 6, 1812
- Samuel F.B. Morse, August 6, 1812
Benjamin West
Benjamin West by Gilbert Stuart. 1783-1784
"Mr. West advises me to paint large as much as possible."
- Samuel F.B. Morse, May 30, 1813
Benjamin West, president of the Royal Academy in London,
also influenced Samuel Morse to paint large historical events
rather than going door to door soliciting portrait work.
- Samuel F.B. Morse, May 30, 1813
Benjamin West, president of the Royal Academy in London,
also influenced Samuel Morse to paint large historical events
rather than going door to door soliciting portrait work.