Charles Decimus Barraud Paintings

Charles Decimus Barraud was a prominent 19th-century New Zealand artist known for his watercolor paintings that depicted the New Zealand landscape. Born in London, England, on August 27, 1822, Barraud developed a strong interest in art from a young age. He was trained as a pharmacist, a profession he initially pursued, but his passion for painting never waned.

In 1849, Barraud decided to emigrate to New Zealand, arriving in Wellington where he continued to work as a pharmacist. Despite his primary profession, he dedicated much of his free time to painting and became an active participant in the local art scene. His works often captured the unique flora, fauna, and landscapes of New Zealand, and he is particularly noted for his attention to detail and his ability to convey the rich colors and textures of his adopted homeland.

Barraud's paintings gained significant recognition in his lifetime, and he became a founding member of the New Zealand Academy of Fine Arts. His work was instrumental in introducing the beauty of New Zealand's landscapes to a wider audience, both domestically and internationally. His most notable publication, 'New Zealand, Graphic and Descriptive,' was released in 1877 and featured a collection of his watercolors along with descriptive text. This book was an important record of the New Zealand environment during the 19th century and remains a valuable historical resource.

Charles Decimus Barraud continued to paint throughout his life and left behind a rich legacy of artwork that continues to be celebrated for its historical and artistic significance. His dedication to his craft made him one of New Zealand's most esteemed early artists. He passed away on June 20, 1897, in Wellington, leaving a lasting impact on the art world and providing a visual history of New Zealand's natural beauty during a time of significant change and development.