Reynolds, Sir Joshua. Painter. Born in Plympton, in Devonshire, in 1723. Studied under the portrait-painter Hudson. Moved to London in 1746. Traveled in Italy, 1749-52; on his return to London, was immediately recognized as the greatest portrait painter of the day. He was the first president of the Royal Academy (1768-92) and, in 1784, was appointed painter to the king. Among his intimate friends were Johnson, Burke, Goldsmith, and other eminent literary men. His 15 "Discourses on Painting" were delivered before the Royal Academy between 1769 and 1790. Died 1792.

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