Joseph Farquharson was a Scottish painter, born in Edinburgh on May 4, 1846. He was renowned for his pastoral landscape paintings, particularly those that depicted snowy, winter scenes. Farquharson's unique ability to capture the ephemeral qualities of light and atmosphere in these landscapes earned him the nickname 'Frozen Mutton Farquharson'. Despite the moniker suggesting a focus on winter scenes, his oeuvre was diverse, encompassing a variety of seasons and settings.
Farquharson hailed from a well-to-do family; he was the fourth laird of Finzean in Aberdeenshire, Scotland. This connection to the Scottish countryside deeply influenced his artistic vision and subjects. He pursued his artistic training at the Trustees’ Academy in Edinburgh and later in Paris, where he was influenced by the Barbizon school - a movement that emphasized the beauty of the natural world and often portrayed rural life.
Throughout his career, Farquharson exhibited a strong dedication to his craft. He was known for his innovative technique of painting outdoors, even in the harsh Scottish winters. To continue his work in the freezing conditions, he designed a mobile painting studio based on a horse-drawn carriage, which allowed him to stay warm and continue painting the snowy landscapes he loved so much.
His work gained considerable acclaim during his lifetime. Joseph Farquharson was elected an Associate of the Royal Scottish Academy in 1880 and became a full member in 1900. He also held membership in the Royal Academy in London. His paintings were sought after by collectors, and he received numerous prestigious commissions.
Joseph Farquharson's legacy is that of a painter who had a profound love for the Scottish landscape. He captured its beauty and variability with a particular affection for the winter season, which set him apart from his contemporaries. His paintings continue to be celebrated for their technical skill and emotive power. Farquharson passed away on April 15, 1935, but left behind a body of work that continues to captivate and inspire.
