James Ross (fl.1729-1733) – An 18th Century Arcadian Oil

A Classical landscape depicting figures on horseback beside an obelisk and a lake with mountainous backdrop

James Ross is known for his sporting pictures and pastoral landscapes in the manner of Gainsborough, but his main influence seems to have been Jan Wyck and there is often confusion of attribution.

He was an artist of considerable accomplishment with his hunting scenes set in a spacious layout. The tone and colouring in his works are of fine quality and usually include a group of elegant figures as can be seen in this painting.

Bibl: British Landscape Painters – M.H. Grant
Dictionary of British 18th Century Painters – Ellis Waterhouse