Horace Walpole

1749

To the Mediterranean with Commodore Keppel

In 1749 Reynolds meets Commodore Augustus Keppel (Lord Edgcumbe introduced them), who invites him to join HMS Centurion on a voyage to the Mediterranean: Lisbon, Cádiz, Algiers and Minorca, then Livorno and Rome. His sister Mary Palmer advances the money for his expenses in Italy.

1753

Settling in London for good

After three months in Devon Reynolds establishes himself in London in 1753 and remains there for the rest of his life: first in St Martin's Lane, then in Great Newport Street, with his sister Frances as housekeeper; he never marries and has no known children. Success comes quickly: Lord Edgcumbe recommends him to the Dukes of Devonshire and Grafton, and other peers follow.

1764

The founding of “The Club”

In 1764 Reynolds brings together 'The Club': its original members include Burke, Bennet Langton, Topham Beauclerk, Goldsmith, Anthony Chamier, Thomas Hawkins and Christopher Nugent, later joined by Garrick, Boswell and Sheridan. The Club meets every Monday evening for supper and conversation at the Turk's Head at 9 Gerrard Street, continuing into the early hours of Tuesday; within ten years its membership rises to 35.

1769

Knighted by George III

King George III knights Reynolds, only the second English artist to be so honoured.

1789

Loss of sight in his left eye

In 1789 Reynolds loses the sight of his left eye, undergoes a painful operation, wears a bandage and is forced into retirement.

23 February 1792

Died