Charles Sillem Lidderdale

Charles Sillem Lidderdale (1830–1895), English, Charles Sillem Lidderdale, born on September 28, 1830, in St. Petersburg, was a British artist renowned for his evocative portraits of young women set against the backdrop of outdoor landscapes. His work, characterized by a delicate interplay of light and shadow, captures the serene beauty of his subjects with a tenderness that resonates with viewers. Lidderdale's artistic journey led him to London, where he spent much of his career contributing to the Victorian art scene. His paintings, often imbued with a sense of tranquility and grace, reflect the aesthetic preferences of his time, blending realism with an idealized vision of femininity. Lidderdale passed away on June 7, 1895, in London, leaving behind a legacy of artwork that continues to be celebrated for its lyrical quality and emotional depth.
Despite the scarcity of detailed records about his personal life, Lidderdale's artistic output speaks volumes about his skill and sensitivity as a painter. His selected works, though not extensively cataloged, showcase a consistent theme of portraying women in harmonious communion with nature, a subject that was both popular and poignant during the Victorian era. Lidderdale's contribution to British art, though perhaps not as widely recognized as some of his contemporaries, remains a testament to the enduring appeal of beauty and simplicity in painting.
  • Portrait of a young girl in a forest (1878)

    Portrait of a young girl in a forest (1878)

    Charles Sillem Lidderdale (English, 1830–1895)

    A young girl stands among towering trees, sunlight filtering through leaves to dapple her dress. Her gaze holds quiet mystery, as if the forest whispered secrets only she could hear. The play of light and shadow wraps around her like a second skin, both sheltering and exposing her solitary moment.