The work was done by John Callcott Horsley who is also known for designing the first Christmas card as well as the first pre-paid envelope which migrated into paid postage stamps. His commissioned Christmas card caused quite a stir when it was noted that one of the subjects, a small child, was drinking wine.

Horsely was born in London in January 1817 to a family that encouraged schooling, and culture. He was sent to study to a preparatory school after which he studied painting under Thomas Webster at the Royal Academy Schools. His work was recognized as early as 1836 when it was exhibited at the Vernon Gallery.

Horsley married Elvira Walter in 1846 but she died of consumption. He then married into another distinguished family by wedding Rosamond Haden. The two toured and connected with wealthy clients in order for Horsley to obtain portrait commissions. They then moved to a home in Cranbrook where he joined the art group called “Cranbrook Colony.” The couple also maintained a home in London.

Horsley’s work leaned toward the style of some of the Dutch masters such as Vermeer which were known for their amazing contrasts and realism. He began receiving awards for his work and in 1844 he was selected to paint frescoes in the Palace of Westminster; quite an honor.

Most of his works were done with the subject shown in settings of the seventeenth or eighteenth centuries.  A collector, John Sheepshanks helped his career by purchasing his paintings.

In the painting called “The Morning of St. Valentine” we can see the Dutch influence in Horsley’s work. We see a beautiful young woman receiving a valentine, while her pet dog chews up yet another missive from an admirer. More valentines are being accepted by the servants at the door. At the time Horsley painted this, the public admired everything Victorian. Horsley certainly provided the romance in this work.

Horsley became rector and treasurer of the Royal Academy and when he spoke out about his opposition to nude life models (but not children drinking wine) he earned the nickname ‘Clothes-Horsley,’ a pun on the term clothes horse. Much controversy arose over painting nudes. Eventually he penned a letter of condemnation under an alias. He was fighting a rising tide however, and eventually he resigned his position, but he did continue to paint wonderful scenes such as the one we are enjoying today. Have a great Valentine’s Day.

Upcoming and Current Events:

•The 92 County Art Show is still on at Honeywell center.
•LAA New location now open at 302 E. Market St.  from 11:30 a.m. – 4 p.m. Wednesday through Saturday.
•The Kim Rieff exhibit is at Warsaw City Hall. Rieff teaches art at Grace College. Visit this gallery from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. daily on the main floor.

Contact your author/artist Darla McCammon at email: [email protected]. Or website at www.darlamc.com.