Richard Brydges Beechey HRHA (1808–1895)

Like George Mounsey Atkinson, Richard Brydges Beechey was a marine painter of distinction, except he also became an Admiral of the British Navy and specialized in naval vessels. He was the son of Sir William Beechey (1753-1839), himself an accomplished marine artist who illustrated ports and a variety of naval scenes. His brother was the celebrated sea captain Frederick William Beechey. Like his brother, Beechey joined the Royal Navy at 14.

A Pilot Cutter Racing to a Ship. 1873

In addition to being a fine naval artist, Richard Brydges Beechey also completed a number of oil paintings and drawings on marine subjects. Whilst surveying the River Shannon in the 1840s, he executed a number of detailed, topographical drawings as well as several excellent watercolours. (Source: "The Watercolours of Ireland", by Crookshank and Glin, 1994).

The Battle of St Vincent. c.1826-7

For many years, Beechey exhibited marine scenes and paintings of ships at the Royal Hibernian Academy (RHA). In 1868 he was made an honorary member.

More Information About Visual Arts in Ireland

• For details of other marine painters, see: Irish Artists: Paintings and Biographies.
• For more about seascapes and marine art in Ireland, see: Irish Art Guide.

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