**David Wilkie (1785-1841)**

David Wilkie was a renowned Scottish painter, celebrated for his vibrant genre scenes that captured the essence of everyday life. Born on November 18, 1785, in Cults, Scotland, he displayed a remarkable talent for painting across a diverse range of genres, including historical scenes, formal royal portraits, and captivating depictions of his travels throughout Europe and the Middle East. Wilkie’s artistic prowess earned him the title of Principal Painter in Ordinary to both King William IV and Queen Victoria, solidifying his status as a leading figure in the art world of his time.

As a **Manifesting Generator** in Human Design, Wilkie embodied a unique blend of creativity and responsiveness. His **Emotional Inner Authority** guided him to make decisions based on his feelings, allowing him to connect deeply with the subjects he portrayed. This emotional depth is evident in his most famous work, “The Chelsea Pensioners Reading the Waterloo Dispatch” (1822), which remains a significant piece in Apsley House.

Wilkie’s **3/5 Profile** reflects his role as an experimenter and a problem solver, often learning through trial and error. This aspect of his personality likely contributed to his innovative approach to painting, as he explored various styles and subjects throughout his career. His **Right Angle Cross of Contagion** incarnation cross (14/8 | 29/30) suggests that his work not only influenced his contemporaries but also left a lasting impact on future generations, spreading inspiration and creativity through his art.

Despite his success, Wilkie’s life was cut short when he tragically died at sea off Gibraltar on June 1, 1841, while returning from his first trip to the Middle East. He was 55 years old at the time of his passing. Often referred to as the “people’s painter,” his legacy endures, reminding us of the beauty and complexity of human experience captured through his brush.

For more information, visit his [Wikipedia biography](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/David_Wilkie).