About this artwork

James Nasmyth was the youngest child in the painter Alexander Nasmyth's large and talented family. He became an engineer and is best known for his invention of the steam hammer. He also had a passion for astronomy, building his own telescopes and publishing a paper about the surface of the moon in 1874. This self-portrait, honestly depicting himself as an elderly and tired man, shows that he had inherited his share of artistic skill alongside his mechanical genius.

Updated before 2020

Does this text contain inaccurate information or language that you feel we should improve or change? Tell us what you think.

James Nasmyth

James Nasmyth