George Whiting Flagg (June 26, 1816 - January 5, 1897)(DOD- verified New York Times Jan. 12, 1897- Death List Of A Day) from New Haven, Connecticut, was an American painter of historical scenes and genre pictures. He was the brother of the artist Jared Bradley Flagg.

George Whiting Flagg lived out his later years at his home located at 12 Westminster Street, Nantucket, Massachusetts until his death, January 5, 1897. Painting from a small studio next to this home. Above the fireplace in the upstairs bedroom, Mr. Flagg painted the following: "He That Maketh Haste To Be Rich Shall Not Be Innocent", which remains above the fireplace to this day.

Relevant References

"The Flagg Family: An Artistic Legacy And The Provenance Of A Collection", by Countess Anthony Szápáry, Pound Ridge, New York, Copyright 1986, Burton & Mayer, Inc., Milwaukee, WI.

"South Carolina Historical Magazine", July 1982, Volume 83, Number 3. pg. 214-234.

A paintings reference may be found at: the Inventory of American Painting and Sculpture, a division of the Smithsonian American Art Museum, Washington, D.C. Internet access may be gained at the Art Inventories Catalog of the Smithsonian Institution Research Information System (SIRIS).

Education

Both Flagg brothers studied painting under their uncle, Washington Allston.

Later in life, George Flagg studied theology and entered the ministry, but eventually he would returned to painting, mainly portraiture, during his declining years.

Notable works

George Whiting Flagg's early work included Boy Listening to a Ghost Story, A Young Greek, and Jacob and Rachel at the Well.

A painting entitled the Murder of the Princes, from Richard Ill, procured Flagg the patronage of Luman Reed, a merchant and businessman from New York City, through whose aid he spent three years studying in Europe, and afterward lived for six years in London.

Another of George Flagg's early paintings, Lady Jane Grey Preparing for Execution, was to make him famous. His fame quickly waned, however, as historical painting became progressively less fashionable.

Among his best known works should be mentioned Landing of the Pilgrims; Landing of the Atlantic Cable; Washington Receiving his Mother's Blessing, which has been frequently engraved; The Good Samaritan; and Columbus and the Egg (1867). George Flagg's The Match Girl, Haidee, and The Scarlet Letter were painted while he was living in London.

Recognition

In 1851, George Whiting Flagg was elected to be a member of the National Academy of Design.