Gallery

William T. Robinson was born on September 17, 1852 in Somerville, MA. He was the son of Thomas and Abigail Luther Robinson of Malden, MA.

Robinson studied art in Boston with George N. Cass. He studied extensively in Paris as well: at the Ecole des Beaux-Arts, the Gobelin Tapestry Schools, and the Academy Julian under Bouguereau and Diogene Maillart. He also studied at the Ecole de Medecine in Paris, presumably for anatomy. He subsequently lived and worked in Malden, MA. For many years he maintained a studio in the Malden Auditorium, and later in the Dowling Building, where he also offered art lessons.

Robinson was a versatile painter who composed portraits, landscapes, marine scenes, still life, and genre scenes. He also produced hand-painted holiday cards and greeting cards, which sometimes featured New Hampshire subjects. Robinson exhibited his work at the Boston Art Club, Malden Public Library, and Poland Spring Art Gallery. His career lasted over 50 years, from the mid-1870s to the mid-1920s. Robinson’s works have been preserved at the Malden Public Library and the Henry Gallery in Seattle, WA.

William T. Robinson died at his home on 5 Hancock Street in Malden, MA on May 13, 1940. He was 87 years of age at the time of his passing. Robinson’s funeral was held two days later at the First Universalist Church in Malden, MA. Burial took place at Forest Dale Cemetery, Forest Street, Malden, MA. He left behind his widow, Helen M. Robinson, and was fondly remembered as an artist who had painted portraits of wealthy Bostonians from past generations.

Obituary From Boston Evening Globe
Boston, MA / Thursday, May 16, 1940 / Page 10 / William T. Robinson

MALDEN, May 16–The funeral of William T. Robinson, 87, prominent artist who specialized in barnyard, fowl and game scenes, was held this afternoon at the Richardson Memorial Chapel of the First Universalist Church. The pastor, Rev. Douglas Frazier officiated.

Representatives from Converse Lodge of Masons and Mizpah Lodge, A.O.U.W., attended. Burial was in Forest Dale Cemetery.

Image of William T. Robinson

Signature

References
Independent research by the authors
Public auction records
Who Was Who in American Art