Scottish artist Sir David Wilkie died - On this day in history

Sir David Wilkie, the Scottish portrait painter, died on 1 June 1841 at the age of 55. Wilkie is best known for his portraits, which include a painting of Sir Walter Scott, a portrait of King George IV to commemorate his visit to Scotland, and a work of art commissioned by the Duke of Wellington, titled Chelsea Pensioners Reading the Gazette of the Battle of Waterloo.

In 1840, Wilkie embarked on a sea voyage for the sake of his health, visiting Constantinople and Jerusalem. He became ill in Malta and died a few days later, being buried at sea in the Bay of Gibraltar.

Further reading

The Life of Sir David Wilkie by Allan Cunningham