The Life and Art of Thomas Kirk Thomas Kirk was an English artist, book illustrator, and engraver of the late 18th century. A pupil of Richard Cosway, Kirk began exhibiting his work at the Royal Academy in 1785. His career was marked by significant contributions to literature, most notably through his illustrations for James Thomson's The Seasons in 1793. He was also employed consistently by Charles Cooke, providing illustrations for celebrated editions such as Cooke's Pocket Edition of English Poets between 1796 and 1798. His talent was recognized by his contemporaries, with Edward Dayes re…