William Joseph Shayer, Senior

Place: Southampton

Born: 1787

Death: 1879

Biography:

A Self-Taught Master of Victorian Era Landscapes and Figure Painting

William Joseph Shayer, Senior, a prominent English landscape and figure painter, left an indelible mark on the art world during the Victorian era. Born in 1787 in Southampton, United Kingdom, Shayer's artistic journey is a testament to his innate talent and perseverance.

Early Beginnings and Collaborations

, with no formal training, began his artistic career by painting decorations on rush-bottom chairs. He then transitioned to painting carriages in Guildford, followed by heraldic painting. Eventually, he mastered oil on canvas, specializing in woodland scenes, country inns, and beach scenes teeming with boats and fishermen. Shayer's collaborations with Edward Charles Williams are particularly noteworthy, where Williams would paint the landscape, and Shayer would add people and animals. This partnership resulted in captivating pieces like The Old Roadside Inn and Near Wantage, Berkshire.

Artistic Style and Legacy

Shayer's work is reminiscent of George Morland's figure paintings. However, his skillful application of glaze imbued his pieces with a unique depth and brightness, distinguishing him from his contemporaries. Key Artworks:

• The Old Roadside Inn (collaboration with Edward Charles Williams)
• Near Wantage, Berkshire (collaboration with Edward Charles Williams)
• Fisherfolk on the Hampshire Coast (available at Wikioo.org)

Museum Collections and Exhibitions

Shayer's works are showcased in various museums, including:

• Victoria and Albert Museum
• Tate Gallery
• Glasgow Art Gallery
• New York Metropolitan Museum of Art

Personal Life and Later Years

Shayer married twice, had ten children, and lived a long life, passing away at 92 in 1879. His eldest son, William Joseph Shayer, junior, followed in his footsteps as a painter. Read more about William Shayer on Wikipedia

• 117 artworks by or after William Shayer at the Art UK site
• Shayer's biography at Sphinx Fine Art