Benjamin Williams Leader, R.A., 1831-1923

In this pioneering study, the first substantial reassessment of the artist and his paintings to be written since 1901, Ruth Wood covers his personal and artistic life over a long career of more than seventy years. Working within the tradition of British landscape painting and influenced by his lifelong admiration of John Constable, Leader's extensive coverage of the British countryside and coastal scenes reveals the development of a distinctive and independent style. A master at exploiting the natural effects of water and light, the countryside after rain or the amber luminosity of the late afternoon sun, and these were features of his work which became his trademarks. Ruth Wood uncovers much hitherto unused material and corrects many errors and misconceptions about B.W. Leader and his work. Important sources include the artist's diaries, records of paintings sold, his letters, British and overseas exhibition catalogues, reviews and other archive material. Extensive and representative colour plat