Thomas Craskell

Essentials

A Life of Engineering and Art

Thomas Craskell was a British engineer and painter who was active in Jamaica during the eighteenth century. His professional life was marked by his role as a military engineer; he served as a lieutenant in the Engineer Corps during the invasions of Martinique and Guadeloupe in early 1759 under Major-General Peregrine Hopson. Beyond his military and engineering pursuits, Craskell was a marine painter whose work was characterized by a precise rendering of naval sails and rigging. His career in maritime art saw him working alongside Peter Monamy and Samuel Scott during the mid-eighteenth century.

In addition to his artistic and military endeavors, Craskell was involved in significant cartographic work. From 1756 to 1761, he worked with James Simpson to conduct a survey of Jamaica, a project that resulted in three maps which could be combined to create an overall map. Furthermore, in 1758, he began the supervision of the King's House in Spanish Town.

Known Works and Legacy

There are only four known works by Thomas Craskell. His surviving paintings include:

Craskell died in 1790. His son, also named Thomas Craskell, served as a captain in the army and was appointed as the superintendent general of the Maroons, succeeding Major John James.

Questions & Answers

Can I explore Thomas Craskell's works by color spectrum?

Thomas Craskell's works can be explored by color on the artist's Spectral Index page.

Where are Thomas Craskell's artworks grouped by art movement?

The movements Thomas Craskell worked in can be seen on the artist's All Movements page, which groups the artworks by movement.

Where can I see Thomas Craskell's artworks in a 3D gallery?

Thomas Craskell's artworks can be seen in a 3D gallery on the artist's 3D Museum page.

How do I find all works by Thomas Craskell in a given medium?

Thomas Craskell's works can be browsed by medium on the artist's All Medium page.

Test your eye

There is only one correct answer for each question.

Question 1:
In which century was Thomas Craskell active in Jamaica?
Question 2:
What was Thomas Craskell's profession besides being a painter?
Question 3:
Which of these artists did Craskell work alongside in his career as a marine painter?
Question 4:
What specific detail was Craskell known for rendering precisely in his paintings?
Question 5:
What was the role of Craskell's son in the army?