Angelica Kauffman
Angelica Kauffman (1741–1807) was a Swiss Neoclassical painter and one of the most prominent female artists of the 18th century. Born in Chur, Switzerland, Kauffman displayed artistic talent from a young age, encouraged by her father, Johann Joseph Kauffman, a skilled painter himself. She received her education in Italy, where she was exposed to the works of the Old Masters and developed a deep understanding of classical art, which greatly influenced her style. Kauffman became well-known for her history paintings, portraits, and allegorical works, characterized by their elegance, clarity, and refined color palette.
Kauffman was a founding member of the Royal Academy of Arts in London in 1768, one of only two women to be included in the original membership. Her works, such as "Cornelia, Mother of the Gracchi" (circa 1785) and "The Artist in the Character of Design Listening to the Inspiration of Poetry" (1782), exemplify her Neoclassical approach, blending historical and mythological subjects with a focus on narrative clarity and emotional expression. Kauffman’s portraits, including those of leading intellectuals and aristocrats, were equally acclaimed for their sensitivity and sophistication.
Throughout her career, Kauffman was highly regarded in both England and Italy, where she moved later in life. She received commissions from many prominent patrons, including European royalty, and her work was celebrated for its fusion of classical themes with contemporary sensibilities. Kauffman also played a crucial role in elevating the status of women in the arts, demonstrating that female artists could achieve prominence in a male-dominated field. Her paintings are housed in major collections, including the National Gallery in London, the Uffizi Gallery in Florence, and the Kunsthistorisches Museum in Vienna, where they continue to be appreciated for their beauty and significance in the history of art.
-
Full Name: Maria Anna Angelica Kauffman
-
Birth and Death: 1741–1807
-
Profession: Painter
-
Influences: Neoclassicism, Old Masters, Classical Antiquity
-
Legacy: One of the most prominent female artists of the 18th century; a founding member of the Royal Academy of Arts; works are held in major collections like the National Gallery, the Uffizi Gallery, and the Kunsthistorisches Museum.
