Robert Robinson Active.1674-1706. 17th.Century British School Mezzotint engraving. Still life with fish. Circa.1680. Printed on laid paper, thread margins, soft horizontal crease to centre, taped repairs to corners. 18 by 22.6 cms.
Robert Robinson was a decorative painter and mezzotinter. His father was probably the John who appears in the records of the Painter-Stainers' Company between 1667-71. Robert was admitted as a member of the Company by redemption in 1674, and this is the first known date in his life. Henceforth his career can be followed in their records until 1691. He took on no fewer than ten apprentices, and on several occasions took part in searches on the Company's behalf to inspect the quality of work and uncover unauthorised practitioners. On one such occasion in August 1684, he was assaulted by a Mr Kneller He lived in the parish of St Bride's in Fleet street, and was buried there in December 1706.