On This Day

December 20 in Art History

3 real events recorded on December 20, the earliest from 1629. 2 artists were born , 1 died on this date.

Born on this day 2

  1. 1629 Born

    Born this day: Pieter de Hooch

    Pieter de Hooch, a Dutch Golden Age painter, was born on December 20, 1629. He is renowned for his serene domestic scenes, often featuring an open doorway, which reflect the quiet intimacy of everyday life. His work shares themes and style with his contemporary, Jan Vermeer.

    De Hooch's subtle and nuanced genre paintings continue to influence the representation of domestic life in art.

  2. 1754 Born

    Born this day: Gainsborough Dupont

    Gainsborough Dupont, born on December 20, 1754, was a British artist and nephew of renowned painter Thomas Gainsborough. His work, as seen in portraits like Anne Elizabeth Cholmley and Landscape with Milkmaids and Cattle, showcases his skill in capturing subjects with elegance and detail. Dupont's artistic style reflects his training under his uncle's guidance.

    Gainsborough Dupont's legacy lies in his contributions to British portraiture and landscape painting, influenced by his notable familial connection to Thomas Gainsborough.

Died on this day 1

  1. 1819 Died

    Died this day: Samuel King

    Samuel King, an American artist born in Newport in 1749, is known for his work, including 'The Reverend Dr. Ezra Stiles'. His art reflects his roots in 18th-century America. On December 20, 1819, King passed away, leaving behind a legacy of American portraiture.

    Samuel King's legacy remains as a notable figure in early American art.