Background
Robertson was born in Monymusk, near Aberdeen on May 8, 1765. His mother was Jean Ross and his father, William Robertson, was a draftsman and architect.
Robertson was born in Monymusk, near Aberdeen on May 8, 1765. His mother was Jean Ross and his father, William Robertson, was a draftsman and architect.
Robertson attended Marischal College in Aberdeen from 1782 to 1786, where he studied art He then studied art in Edinburgh. In 1786 began his studies with Joshua Reynolds and Benjamin West in London.
He also studied art at the Royal Academy of Arts.
Known for his miniature portrait paintings, he was asked to paint George and Martha Washington soon after coming to the United States from Scotland. He also made watercolor landscape paintings and engravings. His book Elements of the Graphic Arts was published in 1802.
He was the eldest of three artistic brothers, which included Alexander and Andrew.
Robertson opened an art school and studio in Aberdeen, Scotland following his training in London. Robertson was a successful painter of portraits and miniature portraits.
He also engraved, including topographical engravings. Archibald and Alexander collaborated on works, like the engravings.
Archibald came to the United States in 1791 at the invitation of several wealthy individuals to teach art
He was asked to paint the portrait of George and Martha Washington. They established the Columbian Academy of Painting in New York on William Street. lieutenant was one of the country"s first art schools.
The Columbian Academy of Art was renamed the Academy of Painting, which continued to be managed by Archibald.
Alexander opened his own art school in 1802. Both of the Robertson brothers were active exhibitors and involved in the management of the American Academy of the Fine Arts (AAFA) in New New York
Archibald joined in 1817 and was on the board of directors for 15 years. In New York, Archibald made watercolor landscape paintings of the Hudson River Valley and New York City.
In 1802 he had the book, Elements of Drawing, of his systematized approach toward drawing for amateur artists.
His approach was inspired by William Sawrey Gilpin. Roberson died December 6, 1835. He is buried at Green-Wood Cemetery in Brooklyn, New New York
Member American Academy Fine Arts, 1817-1835, displayed works in Academy’s annual exhibitions, director, 1817-1833.
Married Eliza Abramse, 1794, 10 children including Anthony Lispenard.