Definition

Proper noun: - Benjamin West: An English painter of historical subjects who was born in America. He was a prominent figure in the art world and became the second president of the Royal Academy of Arts in London.

Usage

• Benjamin West is used to refer to the historical figure, the artist himself.
  • The gallery has a special exhibition featuring works by Benjamin West.
  • Benjamin West was a mentor to many young American artists in London.

Advanced Usage

• "in the style of Benjamin West": Describing artwork that resembles or is influenced by his artistic approach.
  • The portrait was executed in the style of Benjamin West, with dramatic lighting and classical composition.

Variants and Related Words

• West, Benjamin: The inverted form used in alphabetical listings or formal references.
• President of the Royal Academy: A title held by Benjamin West from 1792 to 1805 and again from 1806 to 1820.

Synonyms

• Historical painter: A general term for an artist specializing in scenes from history, mythology, or scripture, which was West's primary genre.
• Academic painter: An artist who worked within and helped lead the established art institutions of his time, like the Royal Academy.

Related Phrases

• The American Raphael: A historical epithet sometimes used for Benjamin West, comparing him to the renowned Italian Renaissance painter Raphael, due to his classical style and influence.

Noun

1. English painter (born in America) who became the second president of the Royal Academy (1738-1820)