John Hoskins (painter)

John Hoskins (c. 1600 – 1664) was an English painter, primarily known for his miniature portraits. He is considered one of the most important miniaturists of the 17th century, celebrated for his exquisite detail and lifelike renderings. His works often depict members of the English aristocracy and gentry. While details of his life remain somewhat scarce, his artistic achievements are well documented through the surviving examples of his work, many of which are held in significant collections. His style is characterized by a delicate hand, precise brushwork, and a masterful use of light and shadow to create depth and volume within the miniature format. He often employed subtle color palettes, relying on delicate gradations to achieve realism. His influence is evident in the work of subsequent miniaturists. Further research into his life and training remains an area of ongoing scholarly interest.