William Simpson Paintings

William Simpson was an influential British artist and war correspondent born in 1823 in Glasgow, Scotland. Known for his detailed and vivid watercolors, Simpson started his career as an apprentice lithographer, a position that allowed him to develop his skills in drawing and printing. His breakthrough came when he was hired by the Illustrated London News in 1851, which tasked him with documenting important events around the world. Simpson traveled extensively throughout his career, covering significant historical events such as the Crimean War, the Indian Mutiny, the opening of the Suez Canal, and the Franco-Prussian War. His works provide a valuable visual record of these events, offering insights into the social and military aspects of the 19th century. Simpson's ability to capture the essence of his subjects with accuracy and sensitivity made his work highly sought after during his lifetime. In addition to war reporting, Simpson also had a keen interest in cultures and architecture, which is evident from his detailed studies of buildings and local customs in places like India, Afghanistan, and the Balkans. His extensive travels and experiences enriched his work, making him not just a war artist but also an ethnographer and historian of sorts. Simpson died in 1899, leaving behind a legacy that offers a unique pictorial history of the Victorian era's pivotal moments.