On This Day

November 5 in Art History

3 real events recorded on November 5, the earliest from 1735. 2 artists were born , 1 died on this date.

Born on this day 2

  1. 1735 Born

    Born this day: Léonard Defrance

    Léonard Defrance, born on November 5, 1735, was a French painter and scholar of J. B. Coclers, known for his diverse works including historical pieces, landscapes, and still lifes. He held academic positions, notably as the first professor of design at the Academy of Liège and later at the École Centrale of the department of Ourthe.

    Defrance's contributions to art education and his varied artistic output have left a lasting impact on the art world.

  2. 1742 Born

    Born this day: Richard Cosway

    Richard Cosway, born on November 5, 1742, was a prominent English portrait painter of the Georgian and Regency era, renowned for his exquisite miniatures. He befriended notable figures such as William Blake and was married to Italian-born painter Maria Cosway, a close friend of Thomas Jefferson.

    Richard Cosway's work continues to be celebrated for its delicate and intricate portrayal of 18th-century England's elite.

Died on this day 1

  1. 1807 Died

    Died this day: Angelica Kauffmann

    Angelica Kauffmann, a Swiss painter, had a successful career in London and Rome, excelling as a history painter, portraitist, landscape, and decoration painter. She was a founding member of the Royal Academy of Art in London in 1768, alongside Mary Moser. Kauffmann's work includes notable pieces such as Telemachus and the Nymphs of Calypso and portraits of prominent figures.

    Angelica Kauffmann's legacy is marked by her trailblazing role as a female artist in 18th-century Europe.