Edwin Landseer

Sir Edwin Henry Landseer

Sir Edwin Henry Landseer (7 March 1802 – 1 October 1873) was an English painter and sculptor, well known for his paintings of animals—particularly horses, dogs, and stags. His best-known works include the lion sculptures in Trafalgar Square, London.

Early Life

Landseer was born in London, the son of the engraver John Landseer. He was a prodigious talent from a young age, enrolling in the Royal Academy of Arts at the age of 13. His early works were exhibited at the Royal Academy when he was just 16 years old.

Career

Landseer gained fame for his animal paintings, which were noted for their detail and emotional depth. His works often depicted animals in anthropomorphic poses, which was a popular style in the Victorian era. Some of his most famous paintings include "The Monarch of the Glen" and "Dignity and Impudence."

Royal Academy

Landseer was elected an Associate of the Royal Academy in 1826, and a full Academician in 1831. His association with the Royal Academy was a significant part of his career, and he exhibited many of his works there.

Sculptures

In addition to his paintings, Landseer is also known for his sculptures. The most famous of these are the four bronze lions at the base of Nelson's Column in Trafalgar Square, which were commissioned in 1858 and completed in 1867.

Personal Life

Landseer never married, but he was known to have had a close relationship with the socialite and author Countess of Blessington. He suffered from bouts of depression throughout his life, which affected his work and productivity.

Later Years and Death

In his later years, Landseer's mental health declined, and he was declared insane in 1872. He died on 1 October 1873 and was buried in St Paul's Cathedral, London.

Legacy

Landseer's work has had a lasting impact on both art and popular culture. His paintings and sculptures continue to be celebrated for their technical skill and emotional resonance. The term "Landseer" is sometimes used to refer to a breed of dog, the Landseer (dog), which is a variety of the Newfoundland dog.

Selected Works

• "The Monarch of the Glen" (1851)
• "Dignity and Impudence" (1839)
• "The Old Shepherd's Chief Mourner" (1837)
• "A Distinguished Member of the Humane Society" (1838)

See Also

• Royal Academy of Arts
• Trafalgar Square
• Nelson's Column
• Victorian era