William Havell

William Havell (1782–1857) was an English landscape painter and a founding member of the Society of Painters of Watercolours. Born in Reading, Berkshire, into a family of artists, Havell showed early talent for drawing, which his father, despite initial reluctance, eventually supported by funding a sketching trip to Wales. This experience greatly influenced his artistic development.

Havell's early works were exhibited at the Royal Academy in 1804, including views of Carnarvon Castle and Nant Ffrancon Valley. He spent time in the Lake District, where he honed his skills in capturing mountain scenery. In 1816, Havell was appointed as a draughtsman for Lord Amherst's embassy to China, though a dispute on board led to his departure. He traveled to India, where he painted portraits and landscapes until 1825, finding financial success during his stay.

After returning to England, Havell resumed work with the Watercolour Society but later switched to oil painting when his watercolours lost popularity. He traveled to Italy in 1827, drawing inspiration from its landscapes and historical sites, which became a recurring theme in his works. Despite his technical skill and delicate use of color, Havell's later works did not achieve commercial success, and he faced financial difficulties later in life.

Havell passed away in Kensington, London, in 1857, and is remembered for his contributions to landscape painting and watercolours.