Nicholas (Felix) Wanostrocht Paintings

Nicholas Wanostrocht, also known by his pen name Felix, was an English cricketer, artist, and author during the 19th century. Born on October 5, 1814, in Camberwell, Surrey, England, he was not primarily known as a visual artist, but rather for his notable contributions to the sport of cricket, both as a player and as an innovator.

Wanostrocht's cricketing career spanned from the 1830s to the 1850s, during which he was recognized as one of the most accomplished batsmen of his time. He played first-class cricket mainly for Kent and the Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC). His tall and elegant batting style was much admired, as was his ability to play with great finesse. He was also known for inventing cricketing equipment, including batting gloves, to protect players' hands, which was a significant innovation in the sport.

Aside from his sporting achievements, Wanostrocht was also an educator. He was the headmaster of a private school in Blackheath, London, where he also promoted the game of cricket. His love for the sport was so great that he sometimes closed the school to allow his pupils to watch cricket matches, a testament to his passion.

In addition to playing and teaching, Wanostrocht also wrote about cricket. Under the pseudonym 'Felix,' he authored 'Felix on the Bat,' a book that became a classic in early cricket literature. Published in 1845, the book offered instructions on batting technique and was illustrated with color plates that depicted cricketing scenes. The book's blend of instruction, personal anecdotes, and illustrations was innovative for its time and contributed to the development of cricket coaching literature.

Wanostrocht's talents extended beyond the cricket field and the classroom. He was a skilled artist, particularly in the medium of lithography. His artistic skills were evident in the illustrations he produced for his own cricket book, which showcased both his technical ability and creative flair. Although there is less documentation on his broader contributions to the visual arts compared to his cricket-related endeavors, his work in illustrating 'Felix on the Bat' remains a testament to his artistic capabilities.

Nicholas Wanostrocht's life was one marked by a diverse array of interests and talents. He passed away on September 3, 1876, in Lower Norwood, London. His legacy in cricket as a player, innovator, and author is well-remembered, and for those with an interest in the history of the sport, his contributions are considered both significant and enduring.