John Stirling (1820–1871) is best known for his rich genre scenes, and in later life, his Moroccan subjects. Born in Peterculter, Aberdeenshire, John was the eldest child of Rev John Stirling (1785–1839) and came from a cultivated family of ministers, merchants, architects, accountants and notaries. Following the death of his father he is listed in 1851 and 1853 as an 'artist-painter' living at 5 Broadford bank, Kingsland-place, Aberdeen. He first exhibited paintings at the Royal Academy in 1852. In 1855 he achieved some success and attention after John Ruskin praised his painting 'Scottish Presbyterians in a Country Parish Church–The Sermon'. An engraving of this work was reproduced in the London Illustrated News and a glowing review published in The Spectator on June 2, 1855.
Stirling continued to exhibit paintings at the Royal Academy almost yearly over two decades, until his death around 1871. His addresses include Hyde Park and Marylebone, as well as Aberdeen, suggesting he spent time living in London as well as Scotland. Stirling's painting style suggests the influence of the Pre-Raphaelites—his great attention to detail, a desire to reflect nature accurately and also finding inspiration in literary sources.
Stirling spent the winter of 1868 to 1869 in Tangier, Morocco and exhibited several Moroccan scenes at Royal Academy over the following two years. He is thought to have died suddenly while abroad although official documentation of this is lacking.
