Joseph Wright of Derby

At 17, he studied in London under Thomas Hudson, the master of Joshua Reynolds, and was also influenced by Alexander Cozens' composition ideas.¹

In 'An Experiment on a Bird in the Air Pump,' he depicted the complex emotions of observers, symbolizing the light and shadow of the coming scientific age.¹

'The Alchemist in Search of the Philosopher's Stone' uses the discovery of phosphorus as a metaphor for the transition from faith to scientific enlightenment.¹

During his stay in Italy from 1773, he was inspired by Mount Vesuvius, leading to numerous dramatic paintings of the volcano throughout his career.¹

Though elected a full member of the Royal Academy in 1784, he declined the honor due to a perceived slight, severing official ties with the institution.¹