Charles Ernest Butler Paintings


Charles Ernest Butler was an English painter specializing in painting religious scenes, allegorical subjects, and portraits. Born in St. Leonards-on-Sea, Sussex, in 1864, Butler studied art at the Lambeth School of Art and the Royal Academy Schools in London. His artistic career was marked by a deep interest in religious and mythological themes, which was a prevalent trend amongst Victorian artists of his time.

Butler's works were characterized by their delicate brushwork, attention to detail, and a muted color palette that often conveyed a sense of spirituality and ethereal beauty. He exhibited at various prestigious institutions, including the Royal Academy of Arts, where his paintings were well received by the public and critics alike.

Despite his focus on religious and mythological subjects, Butler also received commissions for portraits, which allowed him to portray more contemporary subjects and to capture the likenesses and personalities of his sitters. His portraits demonstrated his versatility as an artist and his ability to adapt his style to suit the subject matter.

Throughout his career, Butler's paintings reflected the Victorian fascination with idealized beauty and historical romanticism. He was part of a larger group of artists who sought to escape the realities of the industrial age by looking back to the imagined purity and grandeur of the past.

Charles Ernest Butler passed away in 1933, leaving behind a legacy of paintings that continue to be appreciated for their craftsmanship and adherence to the Victorian artistic sensibilities. While he may not be as widely known as some of his contemporaries, his work exemplifies the period's art and provides insight into the cultural and religious mindset of the time.