John Hamilton Glass SSA was a Scottish artist primarily known for his depictions of rugged scenery in a moderately loose, plein air, style. His busy compositions often feature overcast skies with clouds gathering above rolling hills.

He was born in Hamilton, Lanarkshire but, towards the end of the 19th century, moved to Edinburgh with his wife, Phoebe. The east coast of Scotland provided ample inspiration, particularly the areas of Angus and Fife, and his landscapes were shown at various leading venues. He was an elected member of the Society of Scottish Artists and exhibited at the Royal Scottish Academy.

His works are frequently incorrectly attributed to the animal painter, John Glass ARSA (1820-1885).

Exhibited

Royal Scottish Academy, Society of Scottish Artists, Walker Art Gallery in Liverpool, Royal Hibernian Academy, Royal Glasgow Institute of Fine Arts, Albert Institute in Dundee.

Timeline

1864

Born in Hamilton, Lanarkshire, Scotland, to James Glass Senior, a weaver’s beamer, and Agnes Glass (nee Hamilton).

1871

Lived in Hamilton with his parents and siblings.

1881

Lived in Hamilton with his father. Occupation listed as ‘Painter’s Clerk’.

1887

Married Phoebe Morris Williams in Motherwell, Lanarkshire.

1891

Lived in Edinburgh with his wife and daughter. Occupation listed as ‘House Painter’.

1901

Lived in Edinburgh with his wife and two children. Occupation recorded as ‘Landscape Artist’.

1920

Married Jane Marshall following the death of his first wife.

1940

Lived in Musselburgh, Midlothian.

1940

Died in Dalkeith, Midlothian.

Obituary

Edinburgh Evening News

“Musselburgh Artist’s Death. Mr J. Hamilton Glass, a prominent member of the Society of Scottish Artists has died at Eskbank. Musselburgh, at the age of 76. Mr Glass whose home was at West Holmes Gardens, Musselburgh, exhibited his work at the Royal Scottish Academy, the S.S.A.. the Walker Art Gallery, Liverpool, the Royal Hibernian Academy, and the Royal Glasgow Institute of Fine Arts.”