John Gilbert

Sir John Gilbert (21 July 1817 – 5 October 1897) was a renowned English artist, illustrator, and engraver, largely self-taught. Born in Blackheath, Surrey, he learned to paint by copying prints, with his only formal instruction coming from painter George Lance.

Although he was not admitted to the Royal Academy Schools, Gilbert mastered various techniques, including watercolor and oil painting. He began exhibiting at the Society of British Artists in 1836 and at the Royal Academy from 1838. His works often drew inspiration from medieval and chivalric subjects, earning him the nickname "the Scott of painting."

Gilbert is best known for his illustrations and wood engravings. He contributed over 2,000 engravings for the Illustrated London News and the London Journal. He also illustrated numerous literary works, including a complete edition of Shakespeare's works, for which he produced nearly 750 drawings.

In 1871, he became president of the Royal Watercolour Society, and in 1872, he was knighted, becoming Sir John Gilbert. He was elected a member of the Royal Academy in 1876. Throughout his career, he exhibited around 400 works in watercolor and oil at various art societies.

Today, nearly sixty of his oil paintings are held in British national collections, attesting to his enduring influence in the Victorian art world.