Ralph Albert Blakelock (1847–1919): A Life Shrouded in Mystery Ralph Albert Blakelock, born in New York City in 1847, remains one of the most enigmatic and tragically compelling figures in American art. His life was a poignant blend of artistic vision and personal turmoil, a narrative often overshadowed by obscurity until late in his career. The son of a successful English physician, young Ralph initially followed a path toward medicine, enrolling at the Free Academy of the City of New York – now City College – in 1864. However, the allure of art and music proved too strong to resist, leadin…