Cecil Charles Windsor Aldin was an English artist and illustrator best known for his paintings and sketches of animals, sports, and rural life. Born in Slough, Buckinghamshire, on April 28, 1870, Aldin was educated at Eastbourne College and Solihull Grammar School. He showed an early talent for art and went on to study at the National Art Training School in South Kensington, London.
Aldin's professional career began in the 1890s, and he became famous for his illustrations of pets, particularly dogs, and horses. His warm and humorous style captured the personalities of his subjects, making his work popular with the British public. He was an avid sportsman, and many of his works depict hunting and coaching scenes, reflecting his personal interest in these activities.
In addition to his paintings and drawings, Aldin was a prolific illustrator of books and magazines. He illustrated classics such as 'The Pickwick Papers' and 'The Wind in the Willows,' as well as a number of children's books. He also produced a series of charming inns and taverns, showcasing his interest in English heritage and architecture.
During World War I, Aldin served as a remount purchasing officer, but he continued to produce artwork, including patriotic posters and illustrations that reflected the period's sentiments. After the war, he became increasingly interested in historic buildings threatened by the rapid changes of the time, and he published a series of books that celebrated these structures.
Cecil Aldin passed away on January 6, 1935. His work remains highly collectible, and his illustrations continue to be cherished for their warmth, character, and nostalgic portrayal of English country life.