John Lavery (1856-1941) was an Irish painter known for his portraits, landscapes, and war paintings. He was born in Belfast, Ireland (now Northern Ireland), and later moved to Scotland. Lavery initially studied law but abandoned it to pursue a career in art.
Lavery gained recognition for his portraits, which often depicted notable figures of the time, including politicians, writers, and actors. He was also commissioned to paint several portraits of British royalty, including Queen Victoria and King George V.
In addition to his portraiture, Lavery was an accomplished landscape painter. He was influenced by the Impressionist style and often incorporated bright colours and loose brushwork into his outdoor scenes.
During World War I, Lavery worked as an official war artist, capturing the experiences of soldiers and the war effort. His wartime paintings are notable for their poignant and realistic portrayal of the effects of war.
Throughout his career, John Lavery received numerous awards and honours, including being elected a member of the Royal Academy in London. His works can be found in major art galleries and museums around the world, including the National Gallery of Ireland and the Tate Britain.