John Opie trained as a carpenter in his father's workshop. He showed great artistic talent early on and was supported by the doctor and writer John Wolcot from around 1775. Already at the age of 16, Opie received his first commissions. In 1780, he travelled through several small English towns and painted portraits. In the same year, his patron Wolcot introduced him to London society and presented him as "the Cornish wonder". Opie then established contacts with painters such as Joshua Reynolds. He also got in touch with the court of King George III. In 1786, Opie exhibited for the first time at Somerset House. He received numerous commissions, mainly for portraits. In 1802, he travelled to Paris, and from 1805, he was a professor at the Royal Academy. His oeuvre comprises over 500 portraits – including many notable personalities – as well as 250 history paintings, landscapes and genre scenes.