Frederick Smallfield, A.R.W.S. Paintings

Frederick Smallfield was a British painter born in 1829 in Birmingham, England. He was known for his work as a watercolorist and for his affiliation with the Royal Watercolour Society (R.W.S.), indicated by the post-nominal letters 'A.R.W.S.' which stand for Associate Member of the Royal Watercolour Society.

Smallfield's artistic journey began at a young age, and he showed talent early on. He was educated at the Birmingham School of Design before moving to London to further his studies. There, he became a student at the Royal Academy Schools, which was a significant step in his career as it provided him with formal training and exposure to the art world.

During his career, Smallfield became known for his genre scenes, which often depicted historical or contemporary social situations with a keen eye for detail and a delicate touch in his use of watercolours. He was particularly interested in capturing the nuances of Victorian society, and his works provide a window into the everyday lives of people during this era.

Smallfield exhibited his work extensively, showing at the Royal Academy and at the Royal Watercolour Society, among other venues. His reputation as a watercolorist grew, and in 1859 he was elected as an Associate Member of the Royal Watercolour Society, an honor that recognized his contributions to the medium.

Smallfield's work is characterized by its fine execution and often romantic or sentimental subject matter. While he may not be as widely known as some of his contemporaries, his paintings are appreciated for their historical value and their portrayal of Victorian life.

Frederick Smallfield continued to paint throughout his life, contributing to the British art scene until his death in 1915. His works remain in private collections and museums, offering a glimpse into the rich tradition of British watercolour painting and the Victorian period he so vividly captured.