George Michael Moser

George Michael Moser (1706-1783) was a renowned artist and enameller of the 18th century, father of celebrated floral painter Mary Moser, and, with his daughter, among the founder members of the Royal Academy in 1768.

Born in Schaffhausen, Switzerland, Moser trained initially as a coppersmith in Geneva, later learning additional skills as a chaser, goldsmith and engraver.

He moved to London during the 1720s and married Mary Guynier. Surviving works by him include elaborate gold snuff-boxes and watch-cases (including movements by noted watchmakers George Philip Strigel and John Ellicott, among others), and silver candlesticks in the Rococo style.

Moser was the Royal Academy's first Keeper and as a teacher at the Academy taught many notable artists including William Blake. He also taught at the St Martin's Lane Academy and was drawing master to the British royal family.

External links

* [http://www.npg.org.uk/live/search/person.asp?LinkID=mp03198 Moser's entry at the UK National Portrait Gallery]