(1787 - 1853)
Robert Strickland Thomas entered the Royal Navy as a seaman aboard the ‘Princess Charlotte’ frigate in 1805. He was promoted to Midshipman and may have been taught to paint by the captain of the ship, George Tobin, an amateur painter who later retired to Teignmouth, South Devon, to paint with Thomas Luny. Robert Strickland Thomas took up painting to supplement his income at times when he was on half pay. He became Master’s Mate in the sloop ‘Brisk’ (1807-13), before joining the frigate ‘Creole’ to become Acting Lieutenant. He was confirmed as Lieutenant in 1815, but left the navy after contracting a disease, which left him deaf.
