Augustus Wall Callcott

Sir Augustus Wall Callcott (February 20, 1779—November 2, 1844), English landscape painter, was born in Kensington.

His first study was music; and he sang for several years in the choir of Westminster Abbey. But at the age of twenty he had determined to give up music, and had exhibited his first painting at the Royal Academy. He gradually rose to distinction, and was elected an associate in 1807 and an academician around 1810.

In 1827 he received the honour of knighthood; and, seven years later, was appointed surveyor of the royal pictures. His two principal subject pictures "Raphael and the Fornarina", and "Milton dictating to his Daughters", are much inferior to his landscapes, which are placed in the highest class by their refined taste and quiet beauty.

He was Surveyor of the Queen's Pictures 1843-1844

His wife, Maria was a writer on art and travel. His brother, John Wall Callcott, was a noted composer.

References

*1911