George Adolphus Storey was a notable English painter and illustrator, born on December 4, 1834, in London. He is known for his genre scenes, portraits, and history paintings. Storey was trained at the Royal Academy Schools where he was influenced by the work of Charles Robert Leslie and William Powell Frith, both of whom were known for their narrative style and attention to detail.
During his early career, Storey found success with his genre scenes depicting everyday life. His work was characterized by a keen observation of social interactions and a subtle sense of humor, which resonated with the Victorian audience. He regularly exhibited at the Royal Academy and also showed his paintings at the British Institution and the Society of British Artists.
In addition to genre scenes, Storey painted historical subjects and landscapes. He was also an accomplished portraitist, and his portraits were well received for their elegance and realism. Throughout his career, Storey wrote several books about his experiences as an artist, including 'A Personal Reminiscence of J.M.W. Turner' and 'The Life of a Painter', which provide insight into the art world of his time.
Storey's later work included more sentimental and romanticized subjects, which were popular during the late Victorian era. He was a member of the Royal Institute of Painters in Water Colours and the Royal Institute of Oil Painters. George Adolphus Storey continued to paint and write until his death on February 28, 1919. His legacy includes a diverse body of work that provides a window into the social fabric of 19th-century England and reflects the Victorian taste for narrative and genre painting.
