William John Newton

Sir William John Newton (1785–1869) was an English miniature-painter, in fashion in the early part of the 19th century.

He began his career as an engraver, and executed a few plates, including a portrait of Joseph Richardson, M.P., after Martin Archer Shee.

Concentrating then on miniature-painting, he became one of the most fashionable artists of his day, and for many years his only real rival was Sir William Ross.

He long resided in Argyll Street, London; after his retirement he moved to 6 Cambridge Terrace, Hyde Park, where he died 22 January 1869.

He found a method for joining several pieces of ivory to form a large surface, and was then able to paint some larger groups.