Claude Phillips facts for kids

Sir Claude Phillips (born January 29, 1846 – died August 9, 1924) was a British writer and expert on art. He was an art historian and a critic. He wrote for famous newspapers like The Daily Telegraph.

Phillips was the very first person to be in charge of the Wallace Collection. This is a famous art museum in London. He worked there from 1900 until he retired in 1911. After his retirement, he was given the title of "Sir" for his great work. Many people thought Phillips was one of the best art critics in Victorian Britain. His books about art history were very popular.

Who Was Sir Claude Phillips?

Claude Phillips was born in Regent's Park, London. His birthday was January 29, 1846. He was the second son of Robert Abraham Phillips and Helen Levy.

His Early Life and Education

Claude went to school in France and Germany. After that, he studied law at the University of London. He first started his career as a solicitor, which is a type of lawyer. He became a lawyer in 1883.

As a young lawyer, he often traveled to Italy for work. While in Italy, he became very interested in art. This interest changed his career path.

From Law to Art Critic

Phillips eventually decided to leave his job as a lawyer. In the late 1880s, he started writing about music for The Daily Telegraph.

Writing About Art

From 1885 to 1896, he was a writer for a French art magazine. It was called the Gazette des Beaux-Arts. He also wrote for other important magazines during the Victorian era. These included the Manchester Guardian and The Art Journal.

Phillips became a well-known expert in the art world. He wrote several books about famous artists. These artists included Joshua Reynolds, Antoine Watteau, and Titian. One of his most famous books was The Life of Sir Joshua Reynolds. It was published in 1894.

Working at the Wallace Collection

In 1897, Phillips became a full-time art critic. He wrote for The Daily Telegraph. This happened after he wrote a very good article about the artist Auguste Rodin.

In the same year, Phillips got a very important job. He was chosen to be the first person in charge of the Wallace Collection. This collection is housed at Hertford House. He spent three years getting the art ready for display. He also wrote the first official list of all the artworks. The Wallace Collection opened to the public in 1900.

Phillips stayed in this important role for 14 years. He retired in 1914. After he retired, he was given a special honor. He received a knighthood for his dedicated service. This is why he is known as Sir Claude Phillips.

Later Life and Legacy

Sir Claude Phillips passed away on August 9, 1924. He was 78 years old. A collection of his writings was published after he died. It was called Emotion in Art (1925).

Phillips also helped create a charity called the Art Fund. This charity helps bring art to the UK. A funny painting of him was later given to the UK through this charity.