A Life of Devotion and Conscience
William Law was not a painter, but a priest, theologian, and writer. His life was shaped by the quiet rhythms of study and the weight of his own convictions. Born in 1686 in King's Cliffe, Northamptonshire, England, he moved to Cambridge to study at Emmanuel College. By 1711, he had been elected a fellow and ordained into the priesthood of the Church of England.
The stability of his academic life ended abruptly in 1714. When King George I ascended the throne, Law found himself unable to take the required oath of allegiance due to his previous ties to the House of Stuart. This refusal, marking him as a nonjuror, cost him his position at the university. He moved to London to serve as a curate, living through the shifts of a changing political landscape while maintaining his focus on spiritual matters.
The Written Word and Spiritual Guidance
In 1727, Law took on the role of tutor in Putney, working within the household of Edward Gibbon. He lived there for many years, acting as a guide to the family and their children. During this period, his writing began to take a more prominent form. His books were not mere academic exercises; they were attempts to map out a way of living through disciplined practice.
His work often focused on the practicalities of faith. Some of his notable writings include:
- A Practical Treatise Upon Christian Perfection (1726)
- A Serious Call to a Devout and Holy Life (1728)
- The Spirit of Prayer (1749)
- The Way to Divine Knowledge (1752)
These texts reached beyond his immediate circle. Even those who disagreed with his methods, such as John Wesley, found themselves influenced by the depth of his thought. His later years were marked by a shift toward more mystical themes, influenced by the writings of Jakob Böhme.
Retirement at King's Cliffe
In 1740, Law returned to his birthplace in King's Cliffe. He did not live in isolation. Instead, he shared his home with Mrs. Hutcheson and Miss Hester Gibbon. For twenty-one years, this small group lived a life centered on prayer, charity, and study. They established schools for children in need and practiced the frugality they preached.
His daily routine was rigorous. He rose at 5 a.m. to begin his prayers, a habit that continued until his death on April 9, 1761. His legacy remains in the books that stayed in print long after his passing, serving as a quiet presence for those seeking a disciplined spiritual life.
Questions & Answers
How did William Law's art evolve over time?
A chronological account of William Law's work is available on the artist's Chronicle page, where the artworks pass in order of creation, chapter by chapter.
What moods do William Law's artworks express?
William Law's works can be browsed by mood on the artist's Mood Room page, which arranges the artworks by their recorded moods.
In which historical period did William Law work?
William Law worked in the Early-Modern period. The period situates the artist's activity in history.
Is there a complete list of William Law's artworks?
Every work by William Law on this website can be browsed from the artist's All Artworks page.
