CHRISTOPHER NEWALL

The Art of Lord Leighton A survey of one of the most widely admired Victorian painters.Christopher Newall A critical survey of the works of Frederic, Lord Leighton (1830-96), one of the most widely admired artists in Victorian public life Leighton is best known for his elaborate figurative paintings, inspired by both ancient and classical art Author concentrates on the works themselves, exploring their narratives and constructions and examining the initial reactions of the public upon their exhibition Paintings, drawings, sculptures and photographs complement the text This volume embodies the essential critical overview of the works of Frederic, Lord Leighton (1830-96): one of the most strongly praised and prominent artists in Victorian public life, with a fascinating personality behind his memorable career as an artist. His intricate figurative paintings - for which he has been immortalized in art history - reveal a subtly innovative and quietly absorbing combination of influences from a diversity of both ancient and classical sculpture, and painting. The author of this tome focuses not solely on the actual paintings - deconstructing in detail their almost architectural and cinematic conceptions - but furthermore explains their context and their interesting reception by the Victorian public. The content of this book is punctuated by numerous illustrations of Lord Leighton's paintings and sculptures, as well as a selection of rare and relevant photographs. Overall, this is the definitive monograph to Frederic, Lord Leighton - the artist, the public figure and the private person - comprising an insightful coverage of his career, and combining intellectual rigour in its content with aesthetic harmony in its presentation.

Watercolour was the preferred medium for many 19th-century artists. Lending itself to effects of rich colour and tone, as well as literal realism, watercolour painting encapsulated the principal qualities of Victorian taste. This book acts as an introduction to Victorian watercolours.