Charles Wellington Furse

Born: 1868

Death: 1904

Biography:

, an English painter, left an indelible mark on the art world despite his short life span. Born in 1868 at Staines, he was the son of Rev. C.W. Furse, archdeacon of Westminster, and rector of St John's, Smith Square. His lineage also included a collateral descent from Sir Joshua Reynolds.

Early Life and Education

Furse's artistic talent was evident from an early age, as seen in his drawings illustrating the novels of Sir Walter Scott at just seven years old. He attended public school at Haileybury College before entering the Slade School in 1884, where he won the Slade scholarship the following year. His education was later completed at Julian's atelier in Paris.

Artistic Contributions and Style

Furse's work is characterized by a fresh and vigorous approach to portraiture, often capturing his subjects in outdoor pursuits. Notable works include:

Diana of the Uplands, showcasing his ability to blend sport with art, available for reproduction through Wikioo.org's extensive collection.
The Return from the Ride at the Tate Gallery, exemplifying his skill in capturing life's moments.
A revealing portrait of a younger Charles Darling, later known as Mr. Justice Darling, now in the National Portrait Gallery.
Decorative Tendency and Later Works
Furse's sense of space, composition, and decorative design is best seen in his mural decorations for Liverpool Town Hall (1899-1902). A memorial exhibition of his paintings and sketches was held at the Burlington Fine Arts Club in 1906.
Legacy and Availability of His Work
Despite his short life, Furse's contributions to British portraiture are significant. His work can be found in various collections, including those available for reproduction through Wikioo.org, offering a chance for art lovers to own a piece of his legacy.
- Explore Furse's and other artists' works at Wikioo.org's extensive collection.
- Learn more about the artist and his contributions to British art on Wikipedia.