The Early Life and Rise of William Bradley
Born in Manchester, England, William Bradley faced an early hardship when he was orphaned at the age of three. His journey into the world of art began in humble circumstances, working as an errand boy before his natural inclination for drawing took hold. By the age of sixteen, he had begun practicing as an artist, offering his services as a portrait, miniature, and animal painter, as well as a teacher of drawing. His early career was marked by a modest rate of one shilling per portrait.
Seeking greater opportunities, Bradley moved to London at twenty-one. It was there that he received encouragement from Sir Thomas Lawrence. After spending several years in the metropolis and making occasional visits back to Manchester, he eventually settled in Manchester in 1847, where he enjoyed significant patronage.
Artistic Legacy and Portraiture
Bradley was a talented English portrait artist known for producing striking and intellectual likenesses. His work was particularly noted for his skillful drawing of heads. His professional reach extended to many notable figures, including:
- Lords Beresford, Sandon, Denbigh, Bagot, and Ellesmere
- Sir E. Kerrison
- John Gladstone
- B. Heywood
- James Emerson Tennent
- Col. Currieton, C.B.
- Col. Anderton
- The Rt. Hon. W. E. Gladstone
- Sheridan Knowles
- W. C. Macready
His artistic contributions are preserved in the National Portrait Gallery in London, which holds two of his oil painting portraits and several prints of his work. Despite his early success, his later years were marked by failing health and the loss of the wealth he had accumulated during his career.
