John Collier (painter)

John Collier (27 January 1850 – 11 October 1934) was a British painter and author. He was associated with the Pre-Raphaelite movement, though his style evolved beyond it. Collier was known for his portraits, historical subjects, and mythological scenes.

Born in London, Collier came from a family of notable figures. His father, Robert Collier, 1st Baron Monkswell, was a jurist and politician. His grandfather, John Collier, was a merchant and Member of Parliament. He received his artistic training at the Slade School of Fine Art under Edward Poynter, as well as in Paris and Munich.

Collier's portraits include those of Charles Darwin, Thomas Huxley, and Rudyard Kipling, providing significant historical records of notable individuals. He also painted portraits of members of the British royal family and aristocracy.

His historical and mythological paintings often explored themes of morality, beauty, and tragedy. Examples include Lady Godiva, Lilith, and Cleopatra. These works often featured idealized figures and dramatic compositions.

Collier was also a writer and authored several books, including "A Primer of Art" (1882), "The Art of Portrait Painting" (1905), and "The Religion of an Artist" (1926). These writings offer insights into his artistic philosophy and techniques.

He married twice. His first wife, Marian Huxley, was a daughter of Thomas Huxley. After her death, he married her sister Ethel Huxley.

John Collier's works are held in numerous public and private collections. He is remembered as a skilled portraitist and a painter of grand historical and mythological scenes, contributing significantly to late Victorian and Edwardian art.