Alfred Lys Baldry Paintings

Alfred Lys Baldry was an English art critic, author, and painter, known for his work during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. He was born on January 9, 1858, in London, and his career was marked by a close association with the artist and sculptor Sir Lawrence Alma-Tadema, whose work he greatly admired and about whom he wrote extensively.

Baldry studied at the Heatherley School of Fine Art in London and later at the Royal College of Art. His early work as an artist included book illustrations and landscape paintings. However, Baldry's enduring contribution to the art world is not as much for his own paintings as for his work as an art critic and writer. He wrote for various periodicals such as 'The Magazine of Art' and 'The Studio', and his articles were influential in shaping public opinion about contemporary art and artists of his time.

Throughout his career, Baldry was a champion of the Aesthetic Movement and was known for his support of British artists, particularly those who depicted classical and historical themes with a focus on beauty and craftsmanship. His writings contributed significantly to the appreciation of Victorian art, which was often characterized by its attention to detail, vibrant colors, and romanticized depictions of historical and mythological subjects.

Baldry's most notable work includes 'Albert Moore: His Life and Works' (1894) and 'Sir Lawrence Alma-Tadema, O.M., R.A.' (1915), which remain important sources for the study of these artists. He also published a series of books on art education and technique, which were used as textbooks in his day.

Alfred Lys Baldry's contributions to the field of art history and criticism were widely recognized during his lifetime. He was a member of several art societies and held positions of esteem within the art community. Despite his involvement in the arts, Baldry's own artwork has not been the subject of significant scholarly attention, and his legacy rests predominantly on his written work and his influence as an advocate for the arts.

He continued to write and critique art until his later years, passing away on November 23, 1939. Baldry's insights and critiques have left a lasting impact on the study of Victorian art and the artists he supported.