William Corden Paintings

William Corden, not to be confused with his son William Corden the Younger, was an English portrait artist known primarily for his work as a painter. Born in 1797, in Staffordshire, England, William Corden the Elder established a reputation as a skilled portraitist in the 19th century.

Corden's career began as a miniaturist, but as the demand for miniatures declined with the advent of photography, he transitioned to creating larger works. He initially worked in Derby but later moved to London to advance his career. Corden had a talent for capturing the likeness and character of his sitters, which garnered him a number of high-profile commissions. His ability to depict textures such as fabrics and furs with great detail was particularly admired.

Despite his talent, William Corden the Elder did not achieve the same level of fame as some of his contemporaries. However, his work was well respected among those who commissioned portraits from him, and he was able to support himself through his art. His son, William Corden the Younger, followed in his footsteps and also became a portrait painter. The elder Corden's work was characterized by a strong attention to detail and a traditional approach to portraiture, which was typical of the period.

William Corden the Elder passed away in 1867. While his work may not be widely known today, his contributions to English portraiture during the 19th century provide a valuable glimpse into the era's artistic traditions and the people who lived during that time. Collections of his work can be found in various art galleries and museums in the United Kingdom. His portraits continue to be of interest to art historians and collectors who value the artistry of that period.