Explore: George Watson

(1767 - 1837)

George Watson, a Scottish portrait painter, was taught by the artist Alexander Nasmyth in Edinburgh and also worked in the London studio of Joshua Reynolds, first president of the Royal Academy. Watson established his portrait practice in Edinburgh. Many of his works remain in family collections, although he is represented in the National Galleries of Scotland. In 1830 Watson was elected the first president of the Royal Scottish Academy, a position he held until his death in 1837.