Charles Collins (painter)

Charles Collins (1744 – 1816) was a British painter, known primarily for his natural history illustrations and animal paintings, particularly of birds. He was a member of a family of artists, including his father, also named Charles Collins (fl. 1718-1744), who was a minor landscape painter.

Collins the younger, working in both watercolor and oil, gained a reputation for his meticulous detail and accurate depictions. He exhibited extensively at the Society of Artists and the Royal Academy throughout his career. His work was sought after for publication, and he contributed illustrations to several books on natural history, including works by Marmaduke Tunstall and George Edwards.

Collins' artistic style is characterised by careful observation, precise rendering, and a delicate use of colour. He often depicted birds in their natural habitats, paying close attention to their plumage and behaviour. His paintings and drawings are valued for their scientific accuracy as well as their artistic merit.