William Smith, British geologist C016 / 4896
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William Smith, British geologist C016 / 4896
William Smith (1769-1839), British geologist. The son of a blacksmith, Smith became a canal surveyor, which allowed him to study geology. He discovered that geological strata could be reliably identified at different places on the basis of the fossils they contained. He also proposed the principle of superposition, that if a strata overlays another then it was laid down at a later time. In 1815 he published the first geological map of England and Wales. He is considered the father of English geology. This 1837 portrait, by the French artist Hugues Fourau (1803-1873), is from the Geological Society collection and shows Smith aged 69
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Media ID 9205599
© NATURAL HISTORY MUSEUM, LONDON/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY
Earth Science Earth Sciences Geologist Natural History Oil Painting Portrait Scientist Sixties Strata William Smith 1837
EDITORS COMMENTS
This portrait captures the essence of William Smith, a renowned British geologist who revolutionized the field of earth sciences. Born to humble beginnings as the son of a blacksmith, Smith's insatiable curiosity led him on an extraordinary journey that would forever change our understanding of geological formations. As a canal surveyor, Smith had the unique opportunity to closely observe and study various rock layers along his routes. It was during these expeditions that he made a groundbreaking discovery - fossils found within specific strata could be used as reliable markers for identifying geological formations in different locations. This revelation laid the foundation for stratigraphy, a fundamental principle still utilized by geologists today. In addition to this significant contribution, Smith proposed another revolutionary concept known as the principle of superposition. He postulated that if one layer of rock overlaid another, it must have been deposited at a later time. This simple yet profound idea provided invaluable insights into Earth's history and allowed scientists to unravel its complex geological timeline. The 1837 oil painting by Hugues Fourau beautifully portrays Smith at age 69, capturing his wisdom and dedication towards advancing scientific knowledge. This artwork is part of the Geological Society collection and serves as an enduring tribute to Smith's immense contributions. Often referred to as "the father of English geology". William Smith's legacy lives on through his pioneering work and unwavering passion for uncovering Earth's secrets. His first geological map published in 1815 remains an iconic milestone in scientific cartography, solidifying his status as one of history's most influential geologists.
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