British painter, designer, and illustrator Sir Edward Burne-Jones is one of the most well known of the second generation Pre-Raphaelite artists. Born in Birmingham, Burne-Jones mother died six days after giving birth. Having no siblings the lonely child escaped to the world of drawing. Burne-Jones studied theology at Exeter College in Oxford where he met fellow poet and artist William Morris. The two read the writings of Ruskin and studied and the paintings of the Pre-Raphaelites and decided they should devote their lives to art. In 1856, he met Dante Gabriel Rossetti, who became a great influence on directing Burne-Jones art.

In 1860, Burne-Jones married Georgiana Macdonald. Known for her quiet strength, Georgiana provided a balance to the artists high strung personality. He was also a partner in the firm of Morris, Marshall, Faulkner & Co along with William Morris, Dante Gabriel Rossetti, Madox Brown, and Phillip Webb. 'The Firm', as it was called, began in 1860 and produced interior design, high quality furnishings, stained glass, metal work, tiles, and tapestries. Rossetti and Madox Brown both resigned from the company in 1874. Burne-Jones is known for his efforts in the revival of medieval crafts with the aid of his friend William Morris. His themes are taken from legends and history, often mythological and allegorical characters.

Edward Burne-Jones was elected to the Royal Academy in 1890 but resigned after three years. He designed stained-glass windows, mosaics, and tapestries along with book illustrations under the name of Edward Coley Jones. His designs, along with his medieval crafts style, paved the way for the Arts Nouveau movement. Burne-Jones was knighted in 1894 and died in 1898.

About the Author: Layla Dean is an art enthusiast and contributor to ArtistPages.info

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