KATE GREENAWAY |
Kate Greenaway, 1846-1901, was one of the most famous illustrators of the 19th century. She was the daughter of an artist-engraver, and studied at the South Kensington and Slade art schools. She began illustrating books in 1877. She worked in watercolour, and as well as illustrating she exhibited at the Royal Academy. Greenaway was not illustrating the Regency as such. She was creating her own personal world, and it happened that clothing in that world closely resembled Regency fashion. Her world rebelled against the heavy fabrics, elaborate designs and tight corsetting of the late 1800s just as Regency fashion rebelled against the heavy fabrics, elaborate designs and tight corsetting of the late 1700s. Her work is particularly gentle and delightful, and I think gives us a unique insight into the world of children and very young ladies of our Regency period. |
