Edward Lear

Edward Lear (1812–1888) was an English artist, poet, and author, best known for his literary nonsense, particularly his limericks. Born into a large family in North London, Lear was the youngest of 21 children. Financial hardships meant he was raised by his elder sister, Ann, who became a mother figure to him.

Lear began his career as an ornithological artist, working for the Zoological Society and creating illustrations of birds for prominent figures like the Earl of Derby. His first major publication, Illustrations of the Family of Psittacidae, or Parrots, was released when he was just 19. However, due to deteriorating eyesight, Lear transitioned from bird illustration to landscape painting, producing vibrant watercolours during his extensive travels to countries like Italy, Greece, Egypt, and India.

Beyond his visual art, Lear is celebrated for his whimsical literary works, which include collections of poetry, short stories, and songs. His nonsense poems, including “The Owl and the Pussycat,” remain widely loved. Lear also pursued his ambition to illustrate Alfred, Lord Tennyson’s poems, with a volume published near the end of his life.

Lear’s travels and experiences in Italy, particularly in regions like Calabria, inspired many of his landscape sketches and travel journals. Despite his later years being marked by illness, he continued to paint and write, leaving behind a legacy as a pioneering artist and beloved writer. He died in 1888 in Italy.