Notes

Arthur Wardle was a celebrated British animal painter known for his lifelike portrayals of both domestic and exotic animals. Born in London in 1864, he precociously exhibited at the Royal Academy at just 16. Despite having no formal training, Wardle honed his skills through observation of cattle near the Thames River and of wildlife in the London Zoo. His work often featured dogs, a subject that brought him significant acclaim, including commissions for portraits and illustrations for various publications. Wardle’s attention to detail earned him membership into the Pastel Society in 1911 and the Royal Institute of Painters in Water Colours in 1922. His work is held in significant collections such as the Tate Britain and the Victoria and Albert Museum in London, and is widely reproduced on commercial products such as posters and calendars.