Sketch of Three Figures

Haydon was born on January 26, 1786, in Plymouth, Devon, England. He showed an early aptitude for study, encouraged by his mother. At the age of six, he attended Plymouth Grammar School, and later Plympton Grammar School, where Sir Joshua Reynolds had also studied. In 1804, Haydon moved to London to attend the Royal Academy Schools, quickly gaining recognition. His first exhibition at the Royal Academy was in 1807. Despite his talent, Haydon faced financial difficulties throughout his life, leading to periods of imprisonment for debt. He died by suicide on June 22, 1846, in Paddington, London. Haydon’s diaries and lectures on art were published posthumously, providing valuable insights into his life and thoughts on art.

Museums
National Portrait Gallery, London
Victoria and Albert Museum, London
Ashmolean Museum, Oxford
Leeds Art Gallery
Reading Museum & Town Hall
Hunterian Museum, Glasgow
Royal Albert Memorial Museum & Art Gallery, Exeter
Tate Britain, London
Walker Art Gallery, Liverpool
Ferens Art Gallery, Hull
National Army Museum, London
Plymouth City Museum and Art Gallery
The Box, Plymouth
Royal Hospital Chelsea
Petworth House, National Trust