William James Webbe

1830 - 1904

Essentials

  • Nationality: United Kingdom
  • Top 3 works:
    • Rabbit amid Ferns and Flowering Plants
    • A White Terrier by a Mossy Bank with Flowers
  • Copyright status: Public domain
  • Lifespan: 74 years
  • Art period: 19th Century
  • Died: 1904

The Life and Art of William James Webbe

Born in Redruth, United Kingdom, William James Webbe was an English Victorian painter and illustrator. His artistic career saw him exhibit at the Royal Academy, the British Institution, and the Royal Society of British Artists between 1853 and 1878. His work encompassed various genres, including landscape painting, animal painting, and book illustration. After traveling to the Middle East in 1862, his repertoire expanded to include many Biblical subjects. He was also known for his book illustrations, often using the pseudonym WJ Webb for works published by Raphael Tuck & Sons, as well as illustrations for authors like William Makepeace Thackeray.

Artistic Subjects and Notable Works

Webbe's paintings often focused on rustic and religious themes. His landscape style was noted for its microscopic foreground detail. Some of his documented works include:

His illustrative work appeared in various volumes, including Bible Stories for Children and The Influence Of Beauty by Keats. His output spanned from his debut in 1853 through his active years in the mid-to-late 19th century.

Questions & Answers

Is there an overview of all the subjects William James Webbe painted?

The Subject Atlas of William James Webbe is a page that maps the artist's artworks by their subjects.

In which historical period did William James Webbe work?

William James Webbe worked in the 19th-Century period. The period situates the artist's activity in history.

Where is William James Webbe from?

William James Webbe was born in United Kingdom.

How can I see every artwork made by William James Webbe?

Every work by William James Webbe on this website can be browsed from the artist's All Artworks page.

Test your eye

There is only one correct answer for each question.

Question 1:
In which city did William James Webbe study art?
Question 2:
Which art movement was Webbe an early convert to?
Question 3:
In what year did Webbe make a pilgrimage to Jerusalem and the Middle East?
Question 4:
Which famous art critic commented on Webbe's painting 'The White Owl' in 1856?
Question 5:
Under which pseudonym did Webbe draw his book illustrations?