November 27th, 1878
. Major Sir William Newenham Montague Orpen, KBE, RA, RHA (27 November 1878 – 29 September 1931) in Stillorgan, County Dublin, Ireland He was an Irish artist who worked mainly in London. Orpen was a fine draughtsman and a popular, commercially successful painter of portraits for the well-to-do in Edwardian society, though many of his most striking paintings are self-portraits.
He became one of the leading portrait painters of his generation and gained international acclaim for his work. Orpen’s art career was prolific, and he was particularly active during the early 20th century.
Orpen’s artistic talents extended beyond portraiture, and he also depicted scenes from World War I, where he served as an official war artist. His works are known for their skillful execution and the insight they provide into the social and political landscapes of his time.
Sir William Orpen was knighted in 1918 for his contributions to art and his service as a war artist. His legacy endures, and his paintings are displayed in numerous museums and galleries around the world.
