Solomon Joseph Solomon

1860 – 1927

Artist

Having studied art at various schools in London and abroad, Solomon Joseph Solomon became a professional artist, exhibiting paintings at the Royal Academy from 1881. He was a member of various art societies, and by 1906 he became a full member of the Royal Academy, one of the few Jewish painters to do so.

Continuing the tradition of such English artists as Frederic Leighton and Lawrence Alma-Tadema, Solomon painted portraits (including members of the Royal family), dramatic and theatrical scenes from mythology and the bible on large canvasses. He was also in demand as a book illustrator, particularly adventure books.

During WW1, Solomon became the leading adviser to the War Office on camouflage. Having visited the front lines to investigate camouflage techniques used by the French, he helped to develop tank camouflage. Solomon also designed armoured observation posts disguised as trees.

He established a camouflage school in Hyde Park which was eventually taken over by the army. In 1920 Solomon published a book on camouflage.

Solomon is buried in Willesden Jewish Cemetery, which is also the final resting place of his sister Lily Delissa Joseph, who, too, was a painter.

Solomon Joseph Solomon, self portrait c.1896 (Wikipedia)