Richard Cooper

Richard Cooper the elder (1701–1764) was an English engraver, who for most of his career worked in Edinburgh.

Life Cooper was born in London, and studied engraving under John Pine. On the death of his father he was able to visit Italy, where he spent several years studying the masters, becoming a competent artist, and forming a collection of drawings and prints.

On his return to England Cooper went with a Mr. Guthrie, to Edinburgh where he settled as an engraver. He built a house in St. John Street, which he decorated with his own pictures. He took on apprentices including Robert Strange. Built during the 1737 Theatres Licensing Act, it attempted to circumvent the legislation by displaying concerts of music instead of formal plays but was eventually closed due to a lack of Royal Permit before reopening as the Theatre Royal in 1767.

Family About 1738 Cooper married Ann Lind, by whom he left a son, Richard Cooper the younger, who followed his father's profession.