Early Life and Family Background

George Thomas Colomb was born on 4 June 1787 in Twickenham, London. He was the son of Maria Elizabeth Burchell and Pierre Philippe Colomb, a Swiss émigré. His upbringing was rooted in a family that moved through different spheres of European life, eventually settling into the social structures of Britain.

In 1820, he married Mary, the daughter of Sir Abraham Bradley King, 1st Baronet. Their union resulted in a large family consisting of four sons and three daughters. The lineage of the family continued to follow paths of service and skill. His eldest son, George Halton Colomb, became a colonel in the Royal Artillery and also practiced as a competent amateur painter. His third son, Philip Howard Colomb, rose to the rank of Vice-Admiral. The fourth son, Sir John Charles Ready Colomb, served as a naval strategist and a Member of Parliament.

Military Career and Artistic Activity

His life followed the steady progression of the British Army. He entered the service in 1808 as an ensign with the 96th Regiment of Foot. During the years 1814 and 1815, he served on the staff in America. His rank climbed through the years, reaching major in 1817 and lieutenant-colonel by 1841. In 1843, he took on the role of Commandant of the Royal Hibernian Military School in Phoenix Park, a position he held until 1858. Following his promotion to major-general that same year, he vacated the school post.

While his military duties took precedence, his brushes were never far away. While living in Dublin, he began exhibiting his paintings at the Royal Hibernian Academy. He became a regular presence there, showing work almost every year until 1868. His commitment to the Academy was recognized in 1854 when he was elected an Honorary Member. His subjects often leaned toward the natural world, capturing the quiet details of landscapes and marine scenes.

Later Years and Death

The final years of his life were marked by a steady rise through the military ranks. From 1869 until his death, he held the position of colonel of the 97th (The Earl of Ulster's) Regiment of Foot. This period of service preceded his final promotion to full general, which occurred on 7 February 1874.

He spent his remaining time in Dalkey, Dublin. He died there on 20 March 1874, in his 87th year.