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  • Most Popular Paintings
the collector's folio

William Allan Most Popular Paintings

The 25 artworks by William 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 William Allan · 1782 – 1850

The Slave Market, Constantinople, William Allan

1838 · Scottish National Gallery, Edinburgh · original 129 x 198 cm

A bustling Ottoman market scene where a man on a horse stands amidst vibrant robes and architectural domes under a bright sky.

View the most popular artwork of William Allan ranked #1: The Slave Market, Constantinople
Art Movement
Romanticism
Color Palette
Earthy
Technique
Hand-painted oil on linen canvas
Made
To order, by a trained painter
Popularity
No. 1 of 56 artworks by William Allan
Delivery
Worldwide, about 5 weeks
from$17739 × 25 cm Commission this artwork
Same size as the original$891198 × 129 cm Commission at original size

William Allan: The Signing of the National Covenant in Greyfriars Kirkyard, Edinburgh

1838 · original 82 x 130 cm
View the most popular artwork of William Allan ranked #2: The Signing of the National Covenant in Greyfriars Kirkyard, Edinburgh
Color Palette
Earthy
Technique
Hand-painted oil on linen canvas
Made
To order, by a trained painter
Popularity
No. 2 of 56 artworks by William Allan
Delivery
Worldwide, about 5 weeks
from$17740 × 25 cm Commission this artwork
Same size as the original$460130 × 82 cm Commission at original size

Tartar Robbers Dividing Spoil, 1817, William Allan

1817 · original 64 x 52 cm

Sir William Allan’s ‘Tartar Robbers Dividing Spoil’ (1817) – a dramatic Baroque scene of intrigue & conflict. Oil on canvas, dark tones, & detailed texture. Explore this captivating historical artwork.

View the most popular artwork of William Allan ranked #3: Tartar Robbers Dividing Spoil
Art Movement
Baroque
Color Palette
Earthy
Technique
Hand-painted oil on linen canvas
Made
To order, by a trained painter
Popularity
No. 3 of 56 artworks by William Allan
Delivery
Worldwide, about 5 weeks
from$20228 × 35 cm Commission this artwork
Same size as the original$27152 × 64 cm Commission at original size

William Allan: Compositional Sketch for 'Death of the Regent Moray'

1824 · Scottish National Gallery, Edinburgh · original 27 x 46 cm

Explore 'Death of the Regent Moray,' a dynamic 1824 oil sketch by Sir William Allan. Romantic realism captures a chaotic street scene – a pivotal work reflecting social unrest.

View the most popular artwork of William Allan ranked #4: Compositional Sketch for 'Death of the Regent Moray'
Art Movement
Romanticism
Color Palette
Earthy
Technique
Hand-painted oil on linen canvas
Made
To order, by a trained painter
Popularity
No. 4 of 56 artworks by William Allan
Delivery
Worldwide, about 5 weeks
from$35242 × 24 cm Commission this artwork
Same size as the original$35946 × 27 cm Commission at original size

James Hogg (1770–1835), Poet (The Ettrick Shepherd) (The Ettrick Shepherd's House Heating or The Celebration of his Birthday)

1825 · Scottish National Portrait Gallery, Edinburgh · original 61 x 83 cm

Explore Sir William Allan’s ‘The Ettrick Shepherd’! This 1825 oil painting captures a lively Scottish tavern scene in historical realism. Discover its rich colors, dynamic composition & symbolic details.

View the most popular artwork of William Allan ranked #5: James Hogg (1770–1835), Poet (The Ettrick Shepherd) (The Ettrick Shepherd's House Heating or The Celebration of his Birthday)
Art Movement
Historical Realism
Color Palette
Earthy
Technique
Hand-painted oil on linen canvas
Made
To order, by a trained painter
Popularity
No. 5 of 56 artworks by William Allan
Delivery
Worldwide, about 5 weeks
from$45237 × 27 cm Commission this artwork
Same size as the original$57283 × 61 cm Commission at original size

Joseph Mallord William Turner – William Allan

1833

Black & white pen drawing of a gentleman by William Allan (1833). Study of form & gesture in a realistic yet expressive style. Explore this evocative portrait!

View the most popular artwork of William Allan ranked #6: Joseph Mallord William Turner
Art Movement
Realism
Color Palette
Monochrome
Technique
Hand-painted oil on linen canvas
Made
To order, by a trained painter
Popularity
No. 6 of 56 artworks by William Allan
Delivery
Worldwide, about 5 weeks
from$17726 × 38 cm Commission this artwork

William Allan: Self Portrait

1835 · Royal Scottish Academy of Art - Architecture, Edinburgh · original 92 x 72 cm

Explore Sir William Allan’s ‘Self Portrait’ (1835). A dramatic oil painting of an older gentleman in academic realism. Discover its details & historical significance.

View the most popular artwork of William Allan ranked #7: Self Portrait
Art Movement
Academic Realism
Color Palette
Earthy
Technique
Hand-painted oil on linen canvas
Made
To order, by a trained painter
Popularity
No. 7 of 56 artworks by William Allan
Delivery
Worldwide, about 5 weeks
from$17728 × 36 cm Commission this artwork
Same size as the original$34372 × 92 cm Commission at original size

Study for 'The Murder of David Rizzio' (1833) by William Allan

1833 · Scottish National Gallery, Edinburgh · original 41 x 70 cm

Explore Sir William Allan’s dramatic 'Murder of David Rizzio,' a Romantic oil painting depicting betrayal & violence. Dark tones, loose brushwork, & historical intrigue – a captivating artwork.

View the most popular artwork of William Allan ranked #8: Study for 'The Murder of David Rizzio'
Art Movement
Romanticism
Color Palette
Earthy
Technique
Hand-painted oil on linen canvas
Made
To order, by a trained painter
Popularity
No. 8 of 56 artworks by William Allan
Delivery
Worldwide, about 5 weeks
from$22742 × 24 cm Commission this artwork
Same size as the original$28270 × 41 cm Commission at original size

Transient Poet by William Allan

1971 · Dallas Museum of Art, Dallas
View the most popular artwork of William Allan ranked #9: Transient Poet
Color Palette
Earthy
Technique
Hand-painted oil on linen canvas
Made
To order, by a trained painter
Popularity
No. 9 of 56 artworks by William Allan
Delivery
Worldwide, about 5 weeks
from$20230 × 33 cm Commission this artwork

The Murder of David Rizzio, 1833, William Allan

1833 · Scottish National Gallery, Edinburgh

This dramatic 1833 Romanticism oil by William Allan depicts a royal assassination. Discover the intense history of this masterpiece today.

View the most popular artwork of William Allan ranked #10: The Murder of David Rizzio
Art Movement
Romanticism
Technique
Hand-painted oil on linen canvas
Made
To order, by a trained painter
Popularity
No. 10 of 56 artworks by William Allan
Delivery
Worldwide, about 5 weeks
from$17740 × 25 cm Commission this artwork

John Robertson

1803 · The Company of Merchants of The City of Edinburgh, Edinburgh · original 94 x 70 cm
View the most popular artwork of William Allan ranked #11: John Robertson
Color Palette
Earthy
Technique
Hand-painted oil on linen canvas
Made
To order, by a trained painter
Popularity
No. 11 of 56 artworks by William Allan
Delivery
Worldwide, about 5 weeks
from$17728 × 36 cm Commission this artwork
Same size as the original$34170 × 94 cm Commission at original size

John Robertson (1770–1849) by William Allan, 1803

1803 · The Merchant's Hall, Edinburgh · original 94 x 70 cm
View the most popular artwork of William Allan ranked #12: John Robertson (1770–1849)
Color Palette
Earthy
Technique
Hand-painted oil on linen canvas
Made
To order, by a trained painter
Popularity
No. 12 of 56 artworks by William Allan
Delivery
Worldwide, about 5 weeks
from$17728 × 36 cm Commission this artwork
Same size as the original$34170 × 94 cm Commission at original size

William Allan, Matthew Hardie, Violin Maker (1822)

1822
View the most popular artwork of William Allan ranked #13: Matthew Hardie, Violin Maker
Technique
Hand-painted oil on linen canvas
Made
To order, by a trained painter
Popularity
No. 13 of 56 artworks by William Allan
Delivery
Worldwide, about 5 weeks
from$17729 × 35 cm Commission this artwork

William Allan, Matthew Hardie (1755–1826), Violin Maker (1822)

1822 · Scottish National Portrait Gallery, Edinburgh · original 27 x 23 cm
View the most popular artwork of William Allan ranked #14: Matthew Hardie (1755–1826), Violin Maker
Technique
Hand-painted oil on linen canvas
Made
To order, by a trained painter
Popularity
No. 14 of 56 artworks by William Allan
Delivery
Worldwide, about 5 weeks
from$17729 × 35 cm Commission this artwork

William Hey (1736–1819) (1815)

1815 · Leeds General Infirmary, Leeds · original 123 x 141 cm
View the most popular artwork of William Allan ranked #15: William Hey (1736–1819)
Color Palette
Earthy
Technique
Hand-painted oil on linen canvas
Made
To order, by a trained painter
Popularity
No. 15 of 56 artworks by William Allan
Delivery
Worldwide, about 5 weeks
from$17734 × 30 cm Commission this artwork
Same size as the original$654141 × 123 cm Commission at original size

The Black Dwarf by William Allan, 1831

1831 · Scottish National Gallery, Edinburgh · original 33 x 45 cm
View the most popular artwork of William Allan ranked #16: The Black Dwarf
Color Palette
Dark
Technique
Hand-painted oil on linen canvas
Made
To order, by a trained painter
Popularity
No. 16 of 56 artworks by William Allan
Delivery
Worldwide, about 5 weeks
from$17737 × 27 cm Commission this artwork
Same size as the original$19245 × 33 cm Commission at original size

Sir Walter Scott in His Study with His Dog 'Maida', 1831, William Allan

1831 · Abbotsford House, Malvern · original 18 x 15 cm

Experience Sir Walter Scott in his study with 'Maida'! This 1831 portrait by Sir William Allan captures a moment of literary tranquility. Commission a hand-painted replica today.

View the most popular artwork of William Allan ranked #17: Sir Walter Scott in His Study with His Dog 'Maida'
Art Movement
Romanticism
Color Palette
Earthy
Technique
Hand-painted oil on linen canvas
Made
To order, by a trained painter
Popularity
No. 17 of 56 artworks by William Allan
Delivery
Worldwide, about 5 weeks
from$17728 × 35 cm Commission this artwork

William Blackwood (1776–1834), Publisher – William Allan

1830 · Scottish National Portrait Gallery, Edinburgh · original 127 x 102 cm
View the most popular artwork of William Allan ranked #18: William Blackwood (1776–1834), Publisher
Color Palette
Earthy
Technique
Hand-painted oil on linen canvas
Made
To order, by a trained painter
Popularity
No. 18 of 56 artworks by William Allan
Delivery
Worldwide, about 5 weeks
from$17728 × 36 cm Commission this artwork
Same size as the original$527102 × 127 cm Commission at original size

Sir Walter Scott (1771–1832), Novelist and Poet – Gala Day at Abbotsford by William Allan, 1827

1827 · Scottish National Portrait Gallery, Edinburgh · original 28 x 41 cm
View the most popular artwork of William Allan ranked #19: Sir Walter Scott (1771–1832), Novelist and Poet – Gala Day at Abbotsford
Color Palette
Dark
Technique
Hand-painted oil on linen canvas
Made
To order, by a trained painter
Popularity
No. 19 of 56 artworks by William Allan
Delivery
Worldwide, about 5 weeks
from$17738 × 26 cm Commission this artwork
Same size as the original$18241 × 28 cm Commission at original size

William Allan: Frederick William Robert Stewart, Viscount Castlereagh, Later 4th Marquess of Londonderry

1823 · Mount Stewart, Newtownards · original 91 x 72 cm

A dramatic 1823 military portrait of Viscount Castlereagh by Sir William Allan captures a commanding figure in red and blue amidst a battlefield scene, offering a timeless piece for your private collection.

View the most popular artwork of William Allan ranked #20: Frederick William Robert Stewart, Viscount Castlereagh, Later 4th Marquess of Londonderry
Color Palette
Dark
Technique
Hand-painted oil on linen canvas
Made
To order, by a trained painter
Popularity
No. 20 of 56 artworks by William Allan
Delivery
Worldwide, about 5 weeks
from$17727 × 37 cm Commission this artwork
Same size as the original$34172 × 91 cm Commission at original size

Sir Walter Scott with One of his Daughters (1826) by William Allan

1826 · Scottish National Portrait Gallery, Edinburgh · original 35 x 31 cm
View the most popular artwork of William Allan ranked #21: Sir Walter Scott with One of his Daughters
Color Palette
Earthy
Technique
Hand-painted oil on linen canvas
Made
To order, by a trained painter
Popularity
No. 21 of 56 artworks by William Allan
Delivery
Worldwide, about 5 weeks
from$17731 × 32 cm Commission this artwork
Same size as the original$18031 × 35 cm Commission at original size

Sir Walter Scott, 1st Bt (1831)

1831 · National Portrait Gallery, London · original 81 x 64 cm
View the most popular artwork of William Allan ranked #22: Sir Walter Scott, 1st Bt
Color Palette
Earthy
Technique
Hand-painted oil on linen canvas
Made
To order, by a trained painter
Popularity
No. 22 of 56 artworks by William Allan
Delivery
Worldwide, about 5 weeks
from$17727 × 37 cm Commission this artwork
Same size as the original$30164 × 81 cm Commission at original size

The Facade of Abbotsford, seen through the Entrance Gate by William Allan

1832 · Scottish National Gallery, Edinburgh
View the most popular artwork of William Allan ranked #23: The Facade of Abbotsford, seen through the Entrance Gate
Color Palette
Earthy
Technique
Hand-painted oil on linen canvas
Made
To order, by a trained painter
Popularity
No. 23 of 56 artworks by William Allan
Delivery
Worldwide, about 5 weeks
from$17728 × 35 cm Commission this artwork

The Murder of David Rizzio, 1833, William Allan

1833 · original 103 x 163 cm
View the most popular artwork of William Allan ranked #24: The Murder of David Rizzio
Technique
Hand-painted oil on linen canvas
Made
To order, by a trained painter
Popularity
No. 24 of 56 artworks by William Allan
Delivery
Worldwide, about 5 weeks
from$17740 × 25 cm Commission this artwork
Same size as the original$638163 × 103 cm Commission at original size

The Shepherd's Grace

1835 · original 49 x 71 cm
View the most popular artwork of William Allan ranked #25: The Shepherd's Grace
Color Palette
Neutrals
Technique
Hand-painted oil on linen canvas
Made
To order, by a trained painter
Popularity
No. 25 of 56 artworks by William Allan
Delivery
Worldwide, about 5 weeks
from$17739 × 26 cm Commission this artwork
Same size as the original$25071 × 49 cm Commission at original size
The artist

William Allan

1782 – 1850

Portrait of William Allan
Quick facts
  • Typical colorsearthy
  • Art period19th Century
  • Top 3 worksThe Slave Market, Constantinople, The Signing of the National Covenant in Greyfriars Kirkyard, Edinburgh, Tartar Robbers Dividing Spoil
  • Corpus themessir henry raeburn influence, romantic drama & emotion
  • Museums on APSNational Portrait Gallery, National Maritime Museum, Dallas Museum of Art, Hermitage Museum, Scottish National Gallery
  • Top-ranked workThe Slave Market, Constantinople
  • Emotional tonedramatic
  • Topics exploredmen, historical scene, portrait, 19th century, wars
Biography

Sir William Allan: Bridging Scotland and Russia Through the Brush

Sir William Allan (1782-1850) stands as a pivotal figure in 19th-century Scottish art, a master of historical painting who skillfully blended meticulous realism with an evocative sense of drama. Born into a prominent merchant family in Edinburgh, his artistic journey was largely self-directed, nurtured by early exposure to the burgeoning art scene and later guided by the mentorship of Sir Henry Raeburn, a leading figure of the Scottish Enlightenment. Allan’s work transcends mere portraiture; it's a vibrant tapestry woven with threads of Scottish culture, Russian intrigue, and the romantic spirit of his era. His legacy extends far beyond individual paintings, shaping the identity of the National Gallery of Scotland and influencing generations of artists who followed.

Allan’s formative years were steeped in the traditions of Edinburgh's artistic circles. While formal training was limited, he absorbed influences from John Graham at the Trustees’ Academy, alongside the techniques of David Wilkie and Alexander George Fraser. This early exposure instilled a deep appreciation for detail and composition – hallmarks that would define his distinctive style. Crucially, Raeburn recognized Allan’s talent and offered guidance, fostering an understanding of capturing not just likeness but also character and emotion. This connection to the Scottish Enlightenment profoundly shaped Allan's artistic vision, emphasizing observation, intellectual curiosity, and a desire to represent the world with accuracy and nuance.

A Journey East: Capturing Russian Life

A defining moment in Allan’s career was his decision to travel to Russia in 1805. Driven by a fascination with Eastern cultures and a desire for artistic inspiration, he embarked on an extended sojourn that would profoundly impact his work. Allan immersed himself in the daily life of Cossacks, Circassians, and Tartars, meticulously documenting their customs, clothing, and social interactions. He wasn’t merely sketching; he was actively engaging with these communities, earning their trust and gaining access to scenes rarely seen by Western artists. This immersive experience resulted in a series of paintings that offered unprecedented insights into Russian society – a subject largely unexplored by European art at the time.

His most celebrated works from this period include “The Circassian Captives,” a poignant depiction of a group of women awaiting their fate, and “Russian Peasants Keeping Their Holiday,” which captures the vibrant energy of a rural celebration. These paintings are notable not only for their technical skill but also for their empathetic portrayal of marginalized communities. Allan’s approach was revolutionary; he sought to represent these cultures with respect and understanding, moving beyond stereotypical depictions often found in earlier works.

Notable Works & Artistic Style

Allan's artistic style is characterized by a remarkable blend of realism and romanticism. He possessed an exceptional ability to render textures – from the rough wool of Cossack clothing to the shimmering surface of Circassian jewelry – with astonishing detail. His compositions are often dynamic, employing dramatic lighting and carefully arranged figures to create a sense of movement and narrative. Color plays a crucial role in his work, used not merely for decorative effect but to convey mood and atmosphere.

Key works such as “Portrait of John Renny” exemplify his skill in capturing the likeness and personality of his subjects. The self-portrait, painted later in life, reveals a contemplative gaze and a subtle awareness of his own aging. “The Ballad of Old Robin Gray,” a haunting depiction of an elderly man recalling his past, showcases Allan’s ability to evoke emotion through gesture and expression. These paintings, alongside others housed at the Scottish National Gallery, demonstrate a remarkable evolution in his artistic style – from the early influences of John Opie to a more mature and nuanced approach.

Legacy & Influence

Sir William Allan's impact on Scottish art extends far beyond his individual achievements. He played a vital role in establishing the Scottish National Portrait Gallery, contributing significantly to its collection and shaping its identity as a repository of Scottish artistic heritage. His work helped elevate the status of Scottish painting within the broader European art world, challenging prevailing notions of what constituted “serious” art.

Allan’s legacy is also reflected in the works of subsequent generations of Scottish artists. He demonstrated the importance of studying local culture and traditions, encouraging a more nuanced and authentic representation of Scotland on canvas. His commitment to detail, his ability to capture emotion, and his willingness to explore unconventional subjects continue to inspire artists today. The enduring appeal of Allan’s paintings lies not only in their technical brilliance but also in their profound insights into the human condition and the rich tapestry of Scottish and Russian life.

Questions & Answers

What are the birthplace and birth year of William Allan?

William Allan was born in Edinburgh in 1782.

Where is William Allan from?

William Allan was born in United Kingdom.

In which movements did William Allan work?

The movements William Allan worked in can be seen on the artist's All Movements page, which groups the artworks by movement.

By the WikiOO.org Editorial Team Updated Oct. 18, 2026
Collector's quiz
  1. Sir William Allan is most known for his paintings of which historical period?

  2. Which Scottish artist mentored Sir William Allan early in his career?

  3. What was a significant factor in Sir William Allan's success as an artist?

  4. Which of these artworks is NOT attributed to Sir William Allan?

  5. Where can visitors find a significant collection of Sir William Allan's works?

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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 William Allan

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

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