Ritchie studied with Sir William Allan at the Royal Institution in Edinburgh. In 1841, the artist immigrated to North America, working for a few years in Canada. By 1848 Ritchie had moved to New York City where he established an engraving business. At about this time he began to achieve a reputation as a painter. The artist remained in New York until at least 1891, after which time he moved to Connecticut where he resided until his death.
Ritchie is known primarily for his genre scenes and portraits. He first exhibited at the Academy in 1848, then again in 1852, continuing to show frequently until 1891.
A note from a relative of Ritchie's in the artist's file indicates that Ritchie's ANA portrait, current whereabouts unknown, was painted by himself.
