William Williams (artist)
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William Williams (1727 - 1791) was an American painter. He was born in England. He began residing in Philadelphia around 1747 and afterwards in New York City before returning to England, where he died in Bristol in the Merchants' and Sailors' Almshouse.
Williams is believed to have been a seafarer during the early part of his life. He wrote Penrose, believed to be partly autobiographical about a sailor who is cast away in the New World.
He was also a teacher for artist Benjamin West. West credited Williams as giving him an interest in painting.
William Williams is the father of William Joseph Williams (1759 - 1823), another American painter.
Williams left his personal property to Thomas Eagles, a gentleman who helped Williams gain admission to the almshouse, where he lived until his death. The bequest included many books, a portrait and the manuscript of "Penrose."
