Thomas Cole

Date of Birth: February 1, 1801

Zodiac Sign: Aquarius

Date of Death: February 11, 1848

Biography

Thomas Cole was an Anglo-American painter known for his landscape and history paintings. Born in Lancashire, England, Cole emigrated to the United States with his family in 1818, settling in Ohio. As he matured as an artist, he moved to New York City, where he became the founder of the Hudson River School, an art movement that celebrated the natural beauty of the American landscape. Cole’s works often depicted dramatic and idealized views of the American wilderness, and he is particularly famous for his series of paintings, “The Course of Empire,” which allegorizes the rise and fall of civilization. He spent his later years in Catskill, New York, where he continued to paint and influence a generation of American artists.

5 Interesting Facts about Thomas Cole

1. Thomas Cole was originally trained as an engraver before he turned to painting.

2. He took an 1832 trip to Europe where he was deeply influenced by the landscapes and art he encountered, especially in Italy.

3. Cole’s painting “The Oxbow” is considered one of his masterpieces and is frequently cited as a quintessential example of American landscape painting.

4. He mentored several artists, including Frederic Edwin Church, who would become one of the most prominent members of the Hudson River School.

5. Cole’s work often incorporated allegorical themes, blending natural beauty with moral and philosophical reflections.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Thomas Cole

1. “To walk with nature as a poet is the necessary condition of a perfect artist.”

2. “It is a melancholy fact that even the finest scenery of our land is rapidly disappearing.”

3. “I cannot but express my sorrow that the beauty of such landscapes is quickly passing away.”

4. “Art is the most holy of all pursuits.”

5. “Nature has spread for us a rich and delightful banquet. Shall we turn from it?”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

Thomas Cole did not achieve significant wealth during his lifetime. His paintings were appreciated more for their artistic merit and contribution to American culture rather than financial success. Adjusted for modern values, his highest net worth would be modest compared to contemporary artists.

Children

Thomas Cole married Maria Bartow in 1836, and they had five children: Theodore Alexander Cole, Mary Bartlett Cole, Emily Cole, Elizabeth Cole, and Thomas Cole Jr.