Saint George Hare was an Irish painter who was born on July 5, 1857, in Limerick, Ireland. He is known for his Victorian genre paintings, classical subjects, portraits, and later in his career, religious themes. Hare's artistic journey began at the prestigious Royal Academy Schools in London, where he honed his skills and developed a style that was in line with the academic tradition of the time.
Hare's work often featured historical and allegorical scenes, which were popular amongst the Victorian audiences. He was skilled at capturing the romantic and idealized visions that resonated with the sensibilities of his contemporaries. One of his most famous paintings is 'The Triumph of Faith', which depicts a Christian martyr in a dramatic and emotive composition, showcasing his ability to convey narrative through art.
Throughout his career, Saint George Hare exhibited his work regularly at the Royal Academy and also at other venues such as the Royal Hibernian Academy in Dublin. His paintings were well-received, and he garnered a reputation for his meticulous attention to detail and his ability to create a sense of realism within his works.
Despite the decline in popularity of academic and historical painting in the early 20th century, Hare continued to produce work that remained true to his artistic values. He adapted to some extent by incorporating religious themes, which were still in demand by certain segments of the art market.
Saint George Hare passed away on December 7, 1933. Although he is not as widely known today as some of his contemporaries, his work provides an insightful look into the artistic tastes and cultural values of the Victorian era. His paintings are held in several public collections, and they continue to be of interest to art historians and collectors of 19th-century art.