Thomas Sidney Cooper CVO RA ( 1803 - 1902)

English landscape painter renowned for his depictions of cattle and farm animals.

Born in Canterbury, Kent, Cooper displayed early artistic talent despite financial hardships. Working initially as a coach painter and later in theatre scenery, he pursued art passionately. Moving to London at twenty, he gained admission to the Royal Academy after persistent efforts.

Returning to Canterbury due to financial constraints, Cooper supported himself as a drawing master and through selling sketches. He achieved success in Brussels, painting portraits and teaching, before returning to London in 1830. His career flourished with frequent exhibitions at the Royal Academy and British Institution, culminating in notable works like ‘Intercepted Raid, Ettrick Shepherd’.

Cooper, nicknamed “Cow Cooper” for his animal landscapes, collaborated with Frederick Richard Lee, specializing in pastoral scenes. He was well-connected in London’s cultural circles, counting Charles Dickens and JMW Turner among his friends. Queen Victoria admired his work, inviting him to Osborne House.

Elected a Royal Academician in 1867, Cooper maintained strong ties to Canterbury, where he built a home and later established the Sidney Cooper Gallery and Art School in 1868, providing free art education to local students.

Cooper’s legacy includes his memoir ‘My Life’, recounting encounters with Turner and Dickens. Honored as the oldest Royal Academician during King Edward VII’s accession, he continued painting until his death. His works are held in major collections such as the Tate Gallery and the Victoria and Albert Museum.