Henry Fuseli (Johann Heinrich Füssli)

Style: Romanticism;

Place: Zürich

Born: 1741

Death: 1825

Biography:

Early Life and Education

, a Swiss painter, draughtsman, and writer on art, was born on February 7, 1741, in Zürich, Switzerland. He was the second of 18 children to Johann Caspar Füssli, a portrait and landscape painter, and author of Lives of the Helvetic Painters. Fuseli's early education took place at the Caroline College of Zürich, where he received a classical education alongside his friend Johann Kaspar Lavater.

Artistic Journey and Influences

Fuseli's artistic journey began in earnest after taking orders in 1761. He was forced to leave Switzerland due to his involvement with Lavater in exposing an unjust magistrate, leading to a period of travel through Germany and eventually England in 1765. In London, he met Sir Joshua Reynolds, who advised him to devote himself entirely to art. This led to an art pilgrimage to Italy from 1770 to 1778, during which he adopted the more Italian-sounding name Henry Fuseli.

Notable Works and Associations

* **The Nightmare (1782)**: A pivotal piece that showcases Fuseli's fascination with supernatural subject-matter. * **Shakespeare Gallery**: Contributed several works to John Boydell's project, further solidifying his reputation in the British art scene. * **Milton Gallery**: An ambitious project inspired by John Milton's works, aiming to rival Boydell's Shakespeare Gallery.

Academic and Professional Achievements

* Became a full Academician of the Royal Academy in 1790 with Thor Battering the Midgard Serpent as his diploma work. * Appointed Professor of Painting to the Academy in 1799, later chosen as Keeper, and resumed both offices until his death.

Legacy and Influence

Fuseli's style significantly influenced younger British artists, including William Blake. His emphasis on the supernatural and ideal scale in historical painting, inspired by Michelangelo's works, left a lasting impact on the art world.

• View Henry Fuseli's Artworks at Wikioo.org
• Read more about Henry Fuseli on Wikipedia
• Explore the Milton Gallery and its inspirations in John Milton's works at Wikioo.org's Art Timeline

* February 7, 1741: Born in Zürich, Switzerland * 1761: Took orders and began his artistic journey * 1770-1778: Art pilgrimage to Italy * April 17, 1825: Passed away, leaving behind a legacy of supernatural art