Angelica Kauffman: The Prodigy's War: To Sing or Paint

Angelica Kauffman (1741–1807) was a Swiss child prodigy in both singing and painting. Both parents played a significant role in Angelica’s early development. Johann Joseph Kauffman, her father, specialized in painting portraits, church decoration, and castles. Her mother, Cleophea Lutz, came from a noble Swiss family and was a talented singer. Her musical background influenced Angelica, who was also a gifted soprano. Cleophea also taught Angelica German, Italian, French, and English, which was rare for a girl in the 18th century.

When Sophia was 15, her mother died in 1757. After her death, Angelica focused solely on painting, abandoning a potential career in opera—partly influenced by a priest who warned her about the dangers of the opera world. Johann Joseph, a painter of portraits, church decorations, and castle depictions, helped Angelica with her grief. He painted the church interiors in Schwarzenberg after a fire, focusing on the general decoration, while Angelica painted the Apostles.

Together, they traveled through Milan, Modena, Parma, Florence, and Rome for artistic study and commissions. Johann Joseph remained closely involved in Angelica’s life and career until his death. He supported her ambitions and helped her navigate the European art world.

Angelica moved to London in 1766, where she became a favorite of the aristocracy and intellectuals. In 1768, she was one of only two female founding members of the Royal Academy of Arts. Admirers of her work included Joshua Reynolds, Johann Wolfgang von Goethe, and Antonio Canova. After marrying Italian artist Antonio Zucchi, she moved to Rome, where she continued to paint and host salons.

Angelica Kauffman’s paintings of women and allegories within the Neoclassical style showcase emotional depth and storytelling.