Philip Hermogenes Calderon Paintings

Philip Hermogenes Calderon was a British painter of the Victorian era, known for his historical and genre paintings. Born on May 3, 1833, in Poitiers, France, to a Spanish father and a French mother, Calderon spent his early life in France. The family moved to England where Calderon received his education, including his artistic training at Leigh's Academy and later at the Royal Academy Schools.

After his initial studies, Calderon became influenced by the Pre-Raphaelite Brotherhood, which was reflected in his early works. He exhibited at the Royal Academy for the first time in 1853, and his paintings quickly gained recognition for their detailed realism and vibrant use of color. Despite this, he did not formally join the Brotherhood but was associated with many artists in the circle.

Calderon's most notable works often drew from historical and literary themes, including subjects from Shakespeare and chivalric tales. One of his most famous paintings, 'The Captain's Daughter' (1870), is an example of his historical genre paintings that resonated with Victorian sensibilities of the time. He was also known for works such as 'Broken Vows' and 'St. Elizabeth of Hungary's Great Act of Renunciation,' which showcased his ability to capture emotional depth and moral complexities.

Throughout his career, Calderon was an active member of the artistic community. He was elected an associate of the Royal Academy in 1864, and a full Royal Academician in 1867. From 1879 to his death, he served as the Keeper of the Royal Academy, a position that entailed responsibility for the Royal Academy Schools. Calderon was also a co-founder of the St John's Wood Clique, a group of artists who advocated for the importance of narrative in painting.

Philip Hermogenes Calderon passed away on April 30, 1898. His contributions to the Victorian art scene were significant, and his works continue to be studied and appreciated for their narrative power and attention to historical detail.