James Basire (the Elder) was born in London in 1730. He was the son of an eminent painter and engraver, Isaac Basire, and studied under Richard Dalton. Basire travelled with his teacher through Italy, where he was particularly inspired by the art of Raphael.
After 1760 he worked as an engraver for the Society of Antique-Dealers and in 1770 he became a member of the Royal Society and the Secretary of the Free Society of Artists.
He is perhaps best known for his engravings of historical scenes and portraits but he turned his hand to many different projects, with conspicuous success. James Basire died in London in September 1802.
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