Xanthus Russell Smith: Life and Legacy Early Life and Education Born: February 26, 1839, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Parents: William Thompson Russell Smith and Mary Priscilla Wilson, both accomplished painters themselves. Smith received his initial artistic training at home from his mother, fostering an early appreciation for drawing. Between 1851 and 1852, the family embarked on a tour of Europe, exposing young Xanthus to diverse artistic traditions. Upon returning to America, he briefly pursued studies in chemistry at the University of Pennsylvania before dedicating himself…