Presenting Lord Frederic Leighton!

Frederic, Lord Leighton b. Scarborough, 1830 d. London, 1896 Flaming June. 1895. Oil on Canvas.


Lord Leighton was discovered early on in his life, as an artist. In 1839 he was visiting Paris, with his parents when his drawings were noticed. His life as an artist, that was clearly influenced by Italy and Greece, steady underwent various influences until in 1846 his father chose art to be his son's profession. Leighton not only had the desire to create art, but also enjoyed using his administrative skills, public relations, and his handsome demeanor to influence those in the mainsteam. He loved his profession so intently that he continually helped younger artists, both financially and artistically. He was loved by many due to his willingness to share his talents. He was honored as President of the Royal Academy in 1878, and knighted that same year. Lord Leighton also created sculptures and a few frescos. He also designed the tomb of Elizabeth Barrett Browning.


Flaming June, was a clear rebellion to the times it was painted in. It was in due to the disdain of the Victorian era, where overt sexuality was abhorred. His love of Greek and Italian art stirred his desire to create this masterpiece. Many say that this work was to mimic some earlier paintings of Titan and Giorgione, and the mythological Venus. Despite the former paintings, where the models were nude, Leighton produced the same interest and arousal in this painting. Although June was fully clothed, he used bright colors, vibrant orange to elicit the sensuality of the sleeping woman. The background, soft and serene, gave grace to the flowing edges of her fiery, erotic garments. The painting was put up for auction in 1960 and failed to meet the reserve price of $140. It was purchased by the Museo de Arte de Ponce in Puetro Rica, where it still remains.


Lord Leighton's death, due to a heart infection, grieved London. In the wake of his death, many new painters came to life! A museum was created out of his house in London, located on the edge of the famous Holland Park.