1762
Leaves for London to seek his fortune
In March 1762 he parts from his wife, son and daughter to seek his fortune in London; his early years in the capital are a financial struggle. Apart from a few visits to Cumbria he stays there until 1799, supporting his family from afar, though they never live with him in the capital.
1763
“The Death of General Wolfe” at the Society of Arts competition
His painting “The Death of General Wolfe”, entered in the Royal Society of Arts competition, is, according to Romney’s friends, awarded second prize of 50 guineas; the sum is later reduced to 25 guineas on questionable grounds.
1764
A few weeks in Paris
With his friend, the lawyer Thomas Greene, he travels to Paris to study the old masters: travel abroad is seen as a requisite of an artist’s training, and London offers very little chance to see great art.
1768
Meets the dramatist Richard Cumberland
Romney paints Cumberland’s portrait, and the dramatist helps to introduce him to influential patrons. He also becomes friends with the miniature painter Ozias Humphry.
1769
Exhibits the portrait of Sir George Warren and family
His large portrait of Sir George Warren and family, shown at the Free Society of Artists, is greatly admired and lays the foundations of his future popularity; 1769 proves a breakthrough year.
March 1772
Sets out for Italy with Ozias Humphry
Now secure enough financially, he sets out to study the great artists of the past, as he had always intended, travelling through Paris, Lyon, Marseille, Nice, Genoa, Livorno, Florence and Pisa.