About Me
Premade LayoutsLord Frederic Leighton was born in Scarborough, Yorkshire, the son of a doctor. The family traveled extensively through Europe, allowing Leighton to study in several countries and as a result he learned became fluent in European languages at an early age. 1832 the family relocated to London but had settled in Rome by 1840. Though Lord Leighton's father wished his son to pursue a career in medicine and become a doctor, when the young boy announced that he preferred to study as an artist, his father supported the decision. Leighton received his training throughout Europe, most importantly in Frankfurt under the Nazarene follower, artist Baron Steinle.
Considered the most important figure in classic revival, Leighton is best known for his neo-classical style of painting with trips to the Middle East influencing him towards Orientalism. His early work consisted of historical subjects, particularly from the Middle Ages, much in the manner of the Pre-Raphaelites. In 1854 he opened his own studio in Rome and in 1855 sent Cimabue's Celebrated Madonna is Carried in Procession Trough the Streets of Rome to the Royal Academy, earning him his first great success. The painting was then purchased by Queen Victoria and Prince Albert. Leighton was only twenty-five at the time.1858 found Leighton living in London where he met with adverse reactions to the Royal Academy's 'old guard' who disapproved of the artist's continental style. His work was poorly displayed with bad lighting but Leighton continued to paint and contribute pieces until he could no longer be brushed aside. In 1864 Leighton was elected RA.
The first of the Victorians to settle in the famed Holland Park area, Leighton filled his house with exotic objects and even installed a Moorish fountain in his 'Arab Hall'. The area was soon settled by several prominent artists of the day including Val Prinsep, Luke Fields and Leighton's good friend, George Frederick Watts. Today, Leighton House has been made into a museum.A small collection of Leighton's work is on display in the pictures area.
