Edward Moran
(1829-1901)

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Edward Moran was born in Lancanshire, England in 1829 and left for America as a teenager, settling in Philadelphia. Moran followed his father’s lead and became a skilled weaver before realizing his true calling as a painter in the 1850s. Moran spent nearly thirty years in Philadelphia, where he studied under painters James Hamilton and Paul Weber. Moran slowly integrated himself into the art scene by becoming a member of the Philadelphia Academy of the Fine Arts.

In 1861 Moran decided to broaden his horizons and departed for London. Moran took courses at the Royal Academy and met many influential English painters. When Moran returned to America he moved to New York, where he remained for most of his life.

Moran is most recognized for his seascape paintings and was considered to be the leading maritime painter, frequently published in Art Amateur. Moran’s love of the sea came through in his ability to personify its many moods and emotions. Moran also painted ships with exquisite detail and care. The maritime paintings served as historical illustrations. Moran documented marine activity from Leif Ericsson to Admiral Dewey’s exploration of the Philippines.

From 1877 to 1879 Moran travelled to France to gain more exposure to international artists and particularly the Parisian art scene. When Moran returned he expanded his portfolio, but continued to paint seascapes and scenes of American harbor life.

Moran created a legacy of artists as his two sons Edward Percy Moran and Leon Moran, and his brothers Peter Moran and Thomas Moran, also became well-known artists.

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