William Westall (1781-1850), topographical painter, was born on 12 October 1781 in Hertford. He was taught drawing by his brother Richard (1765-1836), the historical painter. Westall was a part of Matthew Flinders' expedition to Australia, 1801-1805, during which he made sketches in Australia, China and Bombay, and visited Madeira and Jamaica in 1805-1806. In subsequent years he exhibited the watercolours and drawings from his travels, as well as works of English scenery. In 1812 he became an Associate of the Royal Academy. From 1818 he produced illustrations for topographical works. He died on 22 January 1850 at Northbank, St John's Wood. John Wilson Croker (1780-1857), Secretary to the Admiralty, was founder of the 'Athenaeum'.