Robert Thorburn (painter)

He soon developed a love of art, and, owing to the kindness of a neighbouring lady, was at the age of fifteen sent to Edinburgh to draw at the Academy, where he made rapid progress and gained distinction.

As a native of Dumfries he enjoyed the special patronage of the Duke of Buccleuch, whereby he obtained many commissions.

[1] Thorburn's success as a miniature-painter was soon secured, and for many years he shared the patronage of fashionable society with Sir William Charles Ross.

[1] Thorburn's miniatures were of a larger size than usual, showing more of the figure and often accompanied by a landscape background.

They were, however, very much admired at the time of their production, and at the Paris International Exhibition of 1855 Thorburn was awarded a gold medal.