Biography of Hoare, William (British painter, ca.1707-1792)

Of all the eighteenth-century portrait painters who came to Bath, William Hoare ('Hoare of Bath'), whilst not a native, is the most closely associated with the city. Originally from Suffolk, Hoare studied in London and Italy. When Hoare first came to in Bath in 1738, there was little competition but great demand for portraits, so much so that there was enough work available to keep both artists busy even after Gainsborough's arrival in 1759. Hoare exhibited regularly in London and was a founder member of the Royal Academy.

The majority of his commissioned portraits were head-and shoulders images, equally common in oil and pastel, generally in a William Kent frame. These modestly-sized portraits were easily transportable for clients visiting Bath.

There is no doubt that William Hoare was Bath's foremost painter from 1740 onwards, even during Gainsborough's seventeen-year residence. He exhibited widely and taught many of the younger artists who practised in the city. He was also active in local affairs, for example as a Governor of the Royal Mineral Water Hospital, which was founded soon after his arrival by his friends Ralph Allen and 'Beau' Nash. His classical education allowed him access to the learned Prior Park Circle, and acquaintance with such luminaries as Alexander Pope and Samuel Richardson. These connections led to distinguished sitters like the Earl of Chesterfield.