Walford Graham Robertson Paintings


Walford Graham Robertson was a versatile English artist, author, and stage designer born on June 6, 1866, in London. He was known for his contributions to painting, writing, and theater during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Robertson was educated at Charterhouse and at the Slade School of Fine Art, where he developed his skills as a painter under the tutelage of esteemed professors such as Alphonse Legros.

His artistic style was influenced by the Aesthetic Movement and the Pre-Raphaelite Brotherhood. Robertson's works often featured gentle, dreamlike qualities and were known for their delicate use of color and composition. While he was not as widely recognized as some of his contemporaries, his paintings and illustrations were well-respected among his peers.

In addition to his visual art, Robertson made significant contributions to the literary and theatrical world. He was a close friend of the playwright George Bernard Shaw and designed costumes and sets for several of Shaw's productions. Robertson's memoirs, titled 'Time Was,' provide a vivid account of the cultural milieu of his time, including personal anecdotes about his friendships with notable figures such as Oscar Wilde and Ellen Terry.

Robertson also authored several books and plays, often illustrating them himself. His children's book 'The Little Flower King' is one example of his work that combined his literary and artistic talents.

Despite his multi-faceted career, Robertson remained relatively obscure in the annals of art history. He was a modest man who shied away from the limelight, preferring to focus on his work rather than on personal fame. Walford Graham Robertson passed away on January 5, 1948, leaving behind a diverse body of work that reflected his passion for art, literature, and theater. His legacy is that of a renaissance man who contributed quietly but significantly to the cultural life of his era.