the collector's folio

David Allan Most Popular Paintings

The 25 artworks by David Allan our visitors ask for most, ranked by popularity and presented one by one, with the specification and the price of each hand-painted reproduction.

Edition 2026 · 25 artworks Each artwork painted to order
Linen canvas · Certificate of authenticity · Delivered worldwide David Allan · 1744 – 1796

The Children of David Allan by David Allan, 1790

1790 · Royal Scottish Academy of Art - Architecture, Edinburgh · original 59 x 49 cm

Discover David Allan’s ‘The Children of David Allan’ (1790), a captivating portrait showcasing innocence & realism in classical style. Oil on canvas, rich detail, & warm palette – a timeless piece.

View the most popular artwork of David Allan ranked #1: The Children of David Allan

Art Movement: Neoclassicism
Color Palette: Earthy

Technique: Hand-painted oil on linen canvas
Made: To order, by a trained painter
Popularity: No. 1 of 58 artworks by David Allan
Delivery: Worldwide, about 5 weeks

from$20229 × 35 cm Commission this artwork

Same size as the original$25849 × 59 cm Commission at original size

James Erskine, Lord Alva, and his Family, 1780, David Allan

1780 · Scottish National Gallery, Edinburgh

Admire 'James Erskine, Lord Alva, and his Family' (1780) by David Allan! This stunning Rococo portrait captures a refined Scottish family’s life in the 18th century – a captivating glimpse into aristocratic society.

View the most popular artwork of David Allan ranked #2: James Erskine, Lord Alva, and his Family

Art Movement: Romanticism
Color Palette: Earthy

Technique: Hand-painted oil on linen canvas
Made: To order, by a trained painter
Popularity: No. 2 of 58 artworks by David Allan
Delivery: Worldwide, about 5 weeks

from$17735 × 29 cm Commission this artwork

Lead Processing at Leadhills Pounding the Ore

1789 · Scottish National Gallery, Edinburgh

Art Movement: Scottish Enlightenment Painting
Color Palette: Earthy

Technique: Hand-painted oil on linen canvas
Made: To order, by a trained painter
Popularity: No. 3 of 58 artworks by David Allan
Delivery: Worldwide, about 5 weeks

from$17740 × 25 cm Commission this artwork

David Allan: David Allan (1744–1796), Artist (self portrait)

1770 · Royal Scottish Academy of Art - Architecture, Edinburgh · original 128 x 102 cm

View the most popular artwork of David Allan ranked #4: David Allan (1744–1796), Artist (self portrait)

Art Movement: Baroque Rococo Classical
Color Palette: Earthy

Technique: Hand-painted oil on linen canvas
Made: To order, by a trained painter
Popularity: No. 4 of 58 artworks by David Allan
Delivery: Worldwide, about 5 weeks

from$17728 × 36 cm Commission this artwork

Same size as the original$530102 × 128 cm Commission at original size

John Francis, 7th Earl of Mar, and Family, David Allan

National Trust For Scotland, Alloa · original 150 x 211 cm

Admire 'John Francis, 7th Earl of Mar, and Family' by David Allan – a captivating portrait capturing a Scottish family’s life in the late 18th century. Explore its rich details & historical significance.

View the most popular artwork of David Allan ranked #5: John Francis, 7th Earl of Mar, and Family

Art Movement: Romanticism
Color Palette: Earthy

Technique: Hand-painted oil on linen canvas
Made: To order, by a trained painter
Popularity: No. 5 of 58 artworks by David Allan
Delivery: Worldwide, about 5 weeks

from$17737 × 27 cm Commission this artwork

Same size as the original$1067211 × 150 cm Commission at original size

Hope (triptych, centre panel)

Edinburgh City Chambers, Edinburgh

Explore David Allan’s ‘Hope’ triptych – a stunning Renaissance-inspired oil painting of Mary Magdalene. Discover its dramatic lighting & rich texture in this captivating religious artwork.

View the most popular artwork of David Allan ranked #6: Hope (triptych, centre panel)

Art Movement: Baroque
Color Palette: Earthy

Technique: Hand-painted oil on linen canvas
Made: To order, by a trained painter
Popularity: No. 6 of 58 artworks by David Allan
Delivery: Worldwide, about 5 weeks

from$17721 × 47 cm Commission this artwork

Lead Processing at Leadhills Weighing the Lead Bars – David Allan

1789 · Scottish National Gallery, Edinburgh

David Allan's 'Lead Processing at Leadhills' (1789) captures a bustling scene of lead weighing in Scotland’s industrial heartland, showcasing daily life & the era's burgeoning industry.

View the most popular artwork of David Allan ranked #7: Lead Processing at Leadhills Weighing the Lead Bars

Art Movement: Romanticism
Color Palette: Earthy

Technique: Hand-painted oil on linen canvas
Made: To order, by a trained painter
Popularity: No. 7 of 58 artworks by David Allan
Delivery: Worldwide, about 5 weeks

from$17739 × 25 cm Commission this artwork

Joseph Nolleken

1770 · Yale Center for British Art, New Haven · original 63.5 x 48.3cm

Color Palette: Earthy

Technique: Hand-painted oil on linen canvas
Made: To order, by a trained painter
Popularity: No. 8 of 58 artworks by David Allan
Delivery: Worldwide, about 5 weeks

from$20228 × 35 cm Commission this artwork

Same size as the original$26348 × 64 cm Commission at original size

James Craig, Architect (1781)

1781 · Scottish National Portrait Gallery, Edinburgh

View the most popular artwork of David Allan ranked #9: James Craig, Architect

Color Palette: Earthy

Technique: Hand-painted oil on linen canvas
Made: To order, by a trained painter
Popularity: No. 9 of 58 artworks by David Allan
Delivery: Worldwide, about 5 weeks

from$17728 × 36 cm Commission this artwork

David Allan, The Family of the Island of Procida with Vesuvius in the Background (1775)

1775 · Clackmannanshire Council Museum And Heritage Service, Alloa · original 28 x 35 cm

A poignant scene of rural life captured through romantic realism and chiaroscuro in David Allan's 1775 masterpiece The Family of the Island of Procida with Vesuvius in the Background, inviting you to bring history home.

View the most popular artwork of David Allan ranked #10: The Family of the Island of Procida with Vesuvius in the Background

Art Movement: Romantic Realism
Color Palette: Earthy

Technique: Hand-painted oil on linen canvas
Made: To order, by a trained painter
Popularity: No. 10 of 58 artworks by David Allan
Delivery: Worldwide, about 5 weeks

from$17736 × 28 cm Commission this artwork

David Allan, James Abercromby of Tullibody, Esq (1779)

1779 · University of Dundee, Dundee · original 126 x 101 cm

A charming 1779 portrait by David Allan capturing a tender moment between a young girl and her dog amidst nature, offering a timeless piece of Scottish Enlightenment elegance for your private collection.

View the most popular artwork of David Allan ranked #11: James Abercromby of Tullibody, Esq

Art Movement: Portraiture
Color Palette: Earthy

Technique: Hand-painted oil on linen canvas
Made: To order, by a trained painter
Popularity: No. 11 of 58 artworks by David Allan
Delivery: Worldwide, about 5 weeks

from$17728 × 35 cm Commission this artwork

Same size as the original$520101 × 126 cm Commission at original size

David Allan: Lead Processing at Leadhills Washing the Ore

1789 · Scottish National Gallery, Edinburgh

Discover 'Lead Processing at Leadhills,' a captivating 1789 oil painting by David Allan. Witness rustic industry & skilled craftsmanship in this realistic genre piece – a unique historical artwork.

View the most popular artwork of David Allan ranked #12: Lead Processing at Leadhills Washing the Ore

Art Movement: Contemporary Realism
Color Palette: Earthy

Technique: Hand-painted oil on linen canvas
Made: To order, by a trained painter
Popularity: No. 12 of 58 artworks by David Allan
Delivery: Worldwide, about 5 weeks

from$17740 × 25 cm Commission this artwork

Lead Processing at Leadhills Smelting the Ore by David Allan, 1789

1789 · Scottish National Gallery, Edinburgh

View the most popular artwork of David Allan ranked #13: Lead Processing at Leadhills Smelting the Ore

Color Palette: Earthy

Technique: Hand-painted oil on linen canvas
Made: To order, by a trained painter
Popularity: No. 13 of 58 artworks by David Allan
Delivery: Worldwide, about 5 weeks

from$17740 × 25 cm Commission this artwork

David Allan: The Family of the Island of Procida with Vesuvius in the Background

1775 · Clackmannanshire Council Museum And Heritage Service, Alloa

David Allan’s "Family of Procida" (1775) captures rural life in a dramatic oil painting. Romantic realism & chiaroscuro highlight family connection. A beautiful, historic piece.

View the most popular artwork of David Allan ranked #14: The Family of the Island of Procida with Vesuvius in the Background

Art Movement: Romanticism
Color Palette: Earthy

Technique: Hand-painted oil on linen canvas
Made: To order, by a trained painter
Popularity: No. 14 of 58 artworks by David Allan
Delivery: Worldwide, about 5 weeks

from$22736 × 28 cm Commission this artwork

Portrait of a Young Man in a Green Jacket – David Allan

The National Trust For Scotland, Turrief · original 46 x 38 cm

View the most popular artwork of David Allan ranked #15: Portrait of a Young Man in a Green Jacket

Color Palette: Earthy

Technique: Hand-painted oil on linen canvas
Made: To order, by a trained painter
Popularity: No. 15 of 58 artworks by David Allan
Delivery: Worldwide, about 5 weeks

from$17728 × 36 cm Commission this artwork

Same size as the original$19938 × 46 cm Commission at original size

Faith (triptych, left wing)

Edinburgh City Chambers, Edinburgh

Color Palette: Earthy

Technique: Hand-painted oil on linen canvas
Made: To order, by a trained painter
Popularity: No. 16 of 58 artworks by David Allan
Delivery: Worldwide, about 5 weeks

from$17721 × 47 cm Commission this artwork

David Allan, The Vestals Attending the Sacred Fire (1772)

1772 · original 149 x 174 cm

View the most popular artwork of David Allan ranked #17: The Vestals Attending the Sacred Fire

Color Palette: Earthy

Technique: Hand-painted oil on linen canvas
Made: To order, by a trained painter
Popularity: No. 17 of 58 artworks by David Allan
Delivery: Worldwide, about 5 weeks

from$17734 × 29 cm Commission this artwork

Same size as the original$903174 × 149 cm Commission at original size

Thomas, Lord Erskine (d.1766)

National Trust For Scotland, Alloa · original 71 x 59 cm

Color Palette: Earthy

Technique: Hand-painted oil on linen canvas
Made: To order, by a trained painter
Popularity: No. 18 of 58 artworks by David Allan
Delivery: Worldwide, about 5 weeks

from$17730 × 34 cm Commission this artwork

Same size as the original$27159 × 71 cm Commission at original size

Portrait of Two Boys (perhaps the two elder sons of John Francis Erskine, later 7th Earl of Mar) by David Allan, 1783

1783 · Clackmannanshire Council Museum And Heritage Service, Alloa · original 47 x 58 cm

View the most popular artwork of David Allan ranked #19: Portrait of Two Boys (perhaps the two elder sons of John Francis Erskine, later 7th Earl of Mar)

Color Palette: Earthy

Technique: Hand-painted oil on linen canvas
Made: To order, by a trained painter
Popularity: No. 19 of 58 artworks by David Allan
Delivery: Worldwide, about 5 weeks

from$17735 × 28 cm Commission this artwork

Same size as the original$22858 × 47 cm Commission at original size

David Allan: Anne Forbes (1745–1834), Artist

1781 · Scottish National Portrait Gallery, Edinburgh · original 38 x 32 cm

Discover 'Anne Forbes' by David Allan (1781). A stunning Rococo portrait showcasing elegance & artistry. Oil on canvas, gold accents, & a captivating gaze. Ideal for art collectors.

View the most popular artwork of David Allan ranked #20: Anne Forbes (1745–1834), Artist

Art Movement: Rococo
Color Palette: Earthy

Technique: Hand-painted oil on linen canvas
Made: To order, by a trained painter
Popularity: No. 20 of 58 artworks by David Allan
Delivery: Worldwide, about 5 weeks

from$17729 × 35 cm Commission this artwork

Same size as the original$18432 × 38 cm Commission at original size

James Erskine (1722–1796), Lord Alva, and his Family – David Allan

1780 · Scottish National Gallery, Edinburgh · original 125 x 153 cm

Admire James Erskine’s family portrait by David Allan (1780). A stunning Rococo/Neoclassical piece showcasing wealth & refined 18th-century life. Explore this exquisite artwork!

View the most popular artwork of David Allan ranked #21: James Erskine (1722–1796), Lord Alva, and his Family

Art Movement: Neoclassicism
Color Palette: Earthy

Technique: Hand-painted oil on linen canvas
Made: To order, by a trained painter
Popularity: No. 21 of 58 artworks by David Allan
Delivery: Worldwide, about 5 weeks

from$22735 × 29 cm Commission this artwork

Same size as the original$756153 × 125 cm Commission at original size

Faith (triptych, left wing)

original 140 x 61 cm

Color Palette: Earthy

Technique: Hand-painted oil on linen canvas
Made: To order, by a trained painter
Popularity: No. 22 of 58 artworks by David Allan
Delivery: Worldwide, about 5 weeks

from$17721 × 47 cm Commission this artwork

Same size as the original$39961 × 140 cm Commission at original size

Mrs Scott, Mother of Sir Walter Scott

Color Palette: Earthy

Technique: Hand-painted oil on linen canvas
Made: To order, by a trained painter
Popularity: No. 23 of 58 artworks by David Allan
Delivery: Worldwide, about 5 weeks

from$17729 × 35 cm Commission this artwork

James Colvin, 1768, David Allan

1768

Discover 'James Colvin' by David Allan, a captivating portrait from the late 18th/early 19th century. Explore Neoclassical style and masterful oil painting techniques in this formal depiction of youth.

View the most popular artwork of David Allan ranked #24: James Colvin

Art Movement: Neoclassical
Color Palette: Earthy

Technique: Hand-painted oil on linen canvas
Made: To order, by a trained painter
Popularity: No. 24 of 58 artworks by David Allan
Delivery: Worldwide, about 5 weeks

from$17728 × 35 cm Commission this artwork

John Francis, 7th Earl of Mar, and Family, David Allan

original 150 x 211 cm

View the most popular artwork of David Allan ranked #25: John Francis, 7th Earl of Mar, and Family

Color Palette: Earthy

Technique: Hand-painted oil on linen canvas
Made: To order, by a trained painter
Popularity: No. 25 of 58 artworks by David Allan
Delivery: Worldwide, about 5 weeks

from$17737 × 27 cm Commission this artwork

Same size as the original$1067211 × 150 cm Commission at original size

The artist

David Allan

1744 – 1796

Quick facts

Top 3 worksThe Children of David Allan, James Erskine, Lord Alva, and his Family, Lead Processing at Leadhills Pounding the Ore
NationalityUnited Kingdom
Best occasionsstatement
Museums on APSScottish National Gallery of Modern Art, National Portrait Gallery, Yale Center for British Art, Museum of Fine Arts, Scottish National Gallery
Died1796
Creative periodsmature period
Top-ranked workThe Children of David Allan
Topics explored18th century, portraiture, rococo, portrait, family

Biography

A Scottish Voice in the Age of Enlightenment

David Allan, born in Alloa, Scotland, in 1744, emerged as a significant figure during a period of profound artistic and intellectual change. His father’s position as harbor master instilled an early connection to the world beyond Scotland's shores, hinting at influences that would later shape his artistic vision. Though details of his earliest training remain scarce, it is clear that a natural talent blossomed from youth, setting him on a path toward becoming one of Scotland’s most celebrated painters. This path led him, in 1764, to Rome – a pivotal journey for any aspiring artist of the time. For ten years, Allan immersed himself in the study of classical art and architecture, diligently copying masterpieces like the Borghese Gladiator, honing his skills in form and technique under the guidance of Gavin Hamilton. This Italian sojourn wasn’t merely about technical mastery; it was an immersion into a world of ideals that would subtly permeate his later work.

Blending Worlds: Neoclassicism with Scottish Life

Upon returning to Scotland around 1770, Allan established himself in Edinburgh, quickly becoming a leading artist within the city’s vibrant cultural scene. His style is remarkable for its unique synthesis of Neoclassical precision and Rococo elegance. While embracing the classical ideals of order, balance, and clarity – hallmarks of the Neoclassical movement – he retained a decorative sensibility evident in his use of color and composition. This wasn't a rigid adherence to any single school but rather a thoughtful blending of influences. Allan excelled in both portraiture and genre painting, demonstrating a keen observational skill and an ability to capture the essence of his subjects. His portraits weren’t simply likenesses; they possessed psychological depth, revealing character and personality. However, it was perhaps in his genre scenes that Allan truly distinguished himself, offering intimate glimpses into 18th-century Scottish life – from bustling market days to quiet domestic moments. Works like “Lead Processing at Leadhills Washing the Ore” are not merely depictions of industry but insightful social commentaries rendered with remarkable realism and attention to detail. He also ventured into historical subjects, such as "Hope (triptych, centre panel)", showcasing his ambition and versatility while skillfully integrating classical influences with religious themes.

The ‘Scottish Hogarth’ and a Legacy Forged in Observation

Allan's dedication to depicting contemporary life earned him the moniker “the Scottish Hogarth,” a comparison that highlights his contributions to genre painting and social commentary through art. While not directly emulating Hogarth’s often satirical style, Allan shared a similar interest in portraying everyday scenes with honesty and insight. He possessed an exceptional ability to capture the nuances of human interaction and the textures of daily life, elevating seemingly ordinary subjects to artistic significance. His association with the Foulis Academy, a prominent center for artistic training in Edinburgh, further solidified his role in shaping Scottish art during this period. Allan wasn’t just creating paintings; he was contributing to the development of a distinct national artistic identity. He influenced subsequent generations of Scottish artists, encouraging them to look inward and find inspiration in their own culture and surroundings.

A Lasting Impression

David Allan's impact extends beyond his individual artworks. His illustrations for Allan Ramsay’s *The Gentle Shepherd* are particularly noteworthy, demonstrating a playful wit and an ability to capture the spirit of Scottish pastoral life. He was a master of both large-scale historical compositions and intimate domestic scenes, showcasing a remarkable range of skill and sensitivity. His death in 1796 marked the loss of a truly original voice in British art. Today, his paintings continue to be admired for their technical brilliance, insightful portrayals of Scottish society, and enduring artistic merit. Allan’s legacy lies not only in the beauty of his creations but also in his ability to bridge classical ideals with distinctly Scottish subject matter, leaving an indelible mark on the cultural landscape of his time and inspiring artists for generations to come. He remains a testament to the power of observation, the importance of artistic training, and the enduring appeal of capturing the human experience.

Questions & Answers

Where are David Allan's artworks organized by color?

The Spectral Index page organizes David Allan's artworks by color.

Can I browse David Allan's works by mood?

David Allan's works can be browsed by mood on the artist's Mood Room page, which arranges the artworks by their recorded moods.

What are the birth city and country of David Allan?

David Allan was born in Alloa, in United Kingdom.

By the WikiOO.org Editorial Team Updated Sept. 2, 2026

Collector's quiz

David Allan spent a significant period studying art in which city?
Allan's artistic style is best described as a blend of what two movements?
What nickname was David Allan given, highlighting his focus on everyday life in his art?
Besides portraits and historical scenes, what other type of painting did Allan excel in?
With whom did David Allan study while in Rome?

one You choose the size

Standard formats or any custom dimension, matched to the proportions of the original.

two We paint and send a preview

A photo of the finished canvas for your approval before it is shipped.

three Delivered, certified

Rolled, stretched or framed, insured, with a certificate of authenticity.

Commission your David Allan

Every artwork by David Allan in our catalog can be painted to order, in the size that suits the room.

All artworks by David Allan