Sir Francis Bernard Dicksee

Early Life and Training

Sir Francis Bernard Dicksee KCVO PRA was born in London on November 27, 1853, the son of Thomas Francis Dicksee (1819-1895), painter and illustrator, and his wife Eliza nee Bernard. His uncle was John Robert Dicksee (1817-1905), another painter of some note, as was his sister Margaret (1858-1903), and brother Herbert Thomas (1862-1942). The family lived in the Bloomsbury area of London. Young Frank was initially trained in art by his father, before enrolling at the Royal Academy Schools in 1870 and quickly became successful. He joined the Royal Academy in 1891 and later became its president in 1924. This was a very important position in the art world.

Career and Achievements

Dicksee’s artistic home remained the Royal Academy throughout his career, and he became ARA in 1881, and was elected a full RA ten years later. “Startled” was his Diploma work. The painter’s art, and taste were totally in sympathy with that of the public, and his career at this time was one of unbroken success. Dicksee paintings were often of historical scenes, involving drama, and sentiment. He was a competent portrait painter of men, and a great portrait painter of attractive women - happy was the fashionable lady who was painted by Dicksee! In 1925, Frank Dicksee was made a 'Sir' (knighted) for his contributions to art. King George V also honored him in 1927 by naming him to the Royal Victorian Order. This shows how respected he was. He was noted for his good manners, and kindness.

Notable Works

One of Dicksee’s most famous paintings is *The Funeral of a Viking*, which he painted in 1893. It's now in the Manchester Art Gallery. People at the time had mixed feelings about it. Some thought it was a perfect and grand artwork, while others found it a bit too dramatic or staged. Dicksee’s style was characterized by romantic historicising pictures, which continued the tradition of the pre-raphaelite movement. His artwork can be found on ArtsDot.com, where you can explore his paintings, including hesperia. The Art Gallery of New South Wales also houses some of his works.

Legacy and Recognition

Dicksee was awarded an Honorary Oxford Degree in 1927. He served as Trustee of the British Museum, and the National Portrait Gallery, and was president of the Artists Benevolent Foundation. His paintings are admired for their luminous colours, dramatic lighting effects, and meticulous detail—a testament to his dedication to artistic excellence. Sir Frank Dicksee died suddenly on October 17, 1928.