Bembridge, Henry, 1743-1812

Henry Benbridge was a portrait and historical painter and a miniaturist. He was born in Philadelphia on October 20, 1743, the son of James and Mary Benbridge. James Benbridge died in 1751 and his widow then married Thomas Gordon. Henry is believed to have studied with John Wollaston in Philadelphia. From 1765-1769, Henry studied in Italy. He also spent some time in London before returning to Philadelphia in 1770. Around 1771, Henry married Hetty Sage, a miniaturist who had studied with Charles Willson Peale. They had at least one son, Harry. By 1773, Henry and Hetty had moved to Charleston, South Carolina, where he set up as a portrait painter, working there until at least 1790. Not much is known about the last decades of Benbridge's life. He lived in Norfolk, Virginia for a time around 1800. Benbridge was buried in Christ Church cemetery in Philadelphia on January 25, 1812.

From the description of Letters [photostats], 1767-1787. (Winterthur Library). WorldCat record id: 261235104