Paolo and Francesca

Christopher Williams: A Life in Art

Christopher David Williams (1873-1934) was a celebrated Welsh artist whose career spanned the late Victorian and early 20th centuries. He is particularly remembered for his evocative portraits, allegorical scenes, and landscapes that often reflected a strong sense of Welsh identity and the spirit of the Celtic Revival.

Early Life and Education

Born in Maesygwrath, Wales, Williams initially faced opposition from his father, Evan Williams, who envisioned a medical career for him. However, a transformative visit to the Walker Art Gallery in Liverpool in 1892, where he was deeply moved by Frederick Leighton’s *Perseus and Andromeda*, ignited his passion for art. This experience solidified his determination to pursue a life as an artist.

Artistic Development and Influences

• Early Training: Williams began his formal artistic training at the Neath Technical Institute under Mr. Kerr in 1892-1893.
• Royal College of Art & Royal Academy Schools: He continued his studies at the Royal College of Art for three years, followed by further education at the Royal Academy Schools from 1896 to 1901.
• Key Influences: Frederick Leighton was a significant early influence, inspiring Williams’s academic approach and attention to detail. He also drew inspiration from Pre-Raphaelite aesthetics and the broader artistic currents of the Celtic Revival.

Major Achievements and Recognition

• Royal Academy Exhibitions: Williams first exhibited at the Royal Academy in 1902 with *Paolo and Francesca*, followed by a portrait of his father in 1903. He went on to exhibit eighteen paintings there throughout his career.
• Royal Society of British Artists: In 1910, he was invited to join the Royal Society of British Artists, exhibiting thirty-seven paintings with them over the next decade.
• Royal Commission: A pivotal moment came in 1911 when King George V commissioned Williams to create a commemorative painting of the investiture of Edward, Prince of Wales at Caernarfon Castle. He completed two versions of this important work.
• Portraiture: Williams became highly sought after as a portraitist, creating likenesses of prominent figures such as David Lloyd George, Sir John Williams, and Sir Henry Jones.

Themes and Style

Williams’s work is characterized by:

• Portraiture: His portraits are known for their psychological depth and realistic rendering of his subjects.
• Celtic Revival: He frequently explored themes from Welsh mythology and folklore, particularly in paintings like *Ceridwen* and *Branwen*, inspired by the Mabinogion.
• Landscape Painting: Williams painted landscapes extensively throughout Wales, as well as during travels to Switzerland, Italy, France, Spain, Morocco, and Holland.
• Allegorical Scenes: He often incorporated allegorical elements into his work, imbuing it with symbolic meaning.

Historical Significance and Legacy

Christopher Williams played a significant role in promoting Welsh art and culture during his lifetime. He actively participated in the National Eisteddfod as an adjudicator and served on committees for the National Museum of Wales and the Honourable Society of Cymmrodorion. His work reflects a strong sense of national identity and contributed to the artistic flourishing of Wales in the early 20th century.

His paintings are held in numerous public collections, including the National Museum of Wales, the Royal Collection, and the Glynn Vivian Art Gallery, ensuring his legacy continues to inspire and captivate audiences today. He was a brother-in-law to fellow artist Fred Appleyard, and father to astronomer Evan Gwyn Williams and artist Ivor Williams.