Brother Robert Burns

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This painting shows the Nor’ Loch, which covered the ground now occupied by Princes Street Gardens. At the time Nasmyth was painting the loch had already been drained so the artist intended a reminiscence or reconstruction of the original appearance of this site. The building of the Royal Institution on The Mound in the 1820s might very naturally have prompted the artist to think about the site in its original form.

National Galleries Scotland

Alexander Nasmyth was a Scottish landscape painter and portraitist. He is known for his picturesque and detailed depictions of the Scottish countryside, including his famous painting “Edinburgh Castle and the Nor’ Loch.” Nasmyth was born in Edinburgh, September 9, 1758. He trained under his father, Alexander Nasmyth Sr, a landscape architect.

In 1773, Nasmyth moved to London. He studied at the Royal Academy in London, where he was influenced by the works of artists such as Thomas Gainsborough and Joshua Reynolds. Nasmyth’s landscapes often featured grand subjects, such as castles, lakes, and mountains, showcasing the natural beauty of Scotland. His paintings are characterized by their precise attention to detail and atmospheric effects. Nasmyth’s works had a significant influence on later Scottish landscape painters and continue to be admired for their historical and artistic value.

Nasmyth returned to Edinburgh in 1780 and established himself as a successful portraitist and landscape painter. He became renowned for his picturesque and detailed depictions of the Scottish countryside, capturing the natural beauty of Scotland’s landscapes.

Apart from his artistic pursuits, Nasmyth also had a keen interest in engineering and played a significant role in the development of the Forth and Clyde Canal. He even designed a steam road carriage, although it was never commercially successful.

Nasmyth continued to paint throughout his life and became a respected member of the Scottish art community. He passed away on April 10, 1840, leaving behind a legacy of beautiful and influential landscape paintings. His works continue to be appreciated for their historical and artistic value and have had a lasting impact on Scottish landscape painting.

Alexander Nasmyth was the artist behind the iconic portrait of Robert Burns, the celebrated Scottish poet. Nasmyth’s portrait of Burns is not only a significant contribution to the portrayal of the poet, but it has also become a staple of Burns Suppers, adorning the walls of venues where these traditional events are held. The portrait captures the essence of Burns, adding to the cultural legacy of the renowned figure.

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