The Life and Art of William Borthwick Johnstone
Born in Edinburgh, United Kingdom, William Borthwick Johnstone was a Scottish painter, art collector, and gallery curator. Though he initially entered the legal profession, he ultimately devoted himself to painting, beginning his contributions to the Royal Scottish Academy in 1836. He studied miniature-painting under Robert Thorburn in London and attended the antique class of the Trustees' Academy under the direction of William Allan. His travels included a visit to Italy in 1842, where he resided in Venice and Rome.
His artistic output evolved from early landscapes and familiar subjects toward more elaborate historical paintings. Notable works include:
Curatorial Legacy and Collections
Beyond his own canvas, Johnstone was a prominent connoisseur and collector. He played a significant role in the formation of the National Gallery of Scotland, serving as its first principal curator. In this capacity, he drew up the Descriptive and Historical Catalogue of the gallery and worked to enrich the collection through his negotiation skills.
An indefatigable collector, his personal holdings included works of art, objects of antiquity, arms, and armour. Following his death in Edinburgh, his collection underwent a six days' sale at Chapman's auction-rooms. His expertise also extended to writing on art subjects for periodicals and the daily press.
