Edwin Henry Landseer (1802-1873) arguably was wildlife art's first superstar, with over 400 works turned into engravings and made available to the adoring masses.  His career in art started young—his talent was acclaimed—though it's never easy to be a child star; few who are identified as prodigies are able to cope with the pressure of high expectations. 

Landseer's paintings can be found in the permanent collection of Tate Britain; his lion sculptures are iconic fixtures in London's Trafalgar Square; and he was knighted by Queen Victoria to earn the title of "Sir". 

Landseer in his prime was unsurpassed. But fame wasn't all that it was cracked up to be for England's best known animal artist of the 19th century.  Foremost, he loved the wilds of Scotland.  He portrayed wildlife allegorically and romantically, though he could—and did— paint anything.  In 1851, Landseer completed Monarch of the Glen that was commissioned, as part of a three work package intended to hang in the refreshment room of Parliament but fickle lawmakers balked after the paintings were finished.  One example of disappointment in Landseer's life.  As a result, those works were sold to private collectors.





Nonetheless, reproductions were made, enabling Monarch of the Glen to go into wide circulation.  It was so popular that it even became the brand logo for Dewar and Glenfiddich Scotch.  (So much for the judgments of politicians).

For all of his success, Landseer for much of his adult life battled depression and melancholia, nervous breakdowns and an addiction to drink, historians say.

Francis Broun talks about Landseer's life in this video "Genius Denied: The Art of Sir Edwin Landseer".  (If you have time, watch the entire lecture;  otherwise, fast forward to the 28 minute, 30 second mark).  Here, Broun observes:  "Most artists didn't have good table manners. Landseer knew how to play the game. No dinner party was complete without his appearance. He was a real dandy.  He wore frilly shirts and had naturally curly hair.  (He was a) witty conversationalist.  No party was a success until he performed his uncanny impersonations of bird calls and barnyard animals.  These are useful talents to have but he could appeal to anybody."

Landseer had talent;  he also was a bonafide character. (Look for a coming feature on Landseer in a future edition of WAJ).