Sir Edwin Landseer, R.A. was the son of the engraver John Landseer, A.R.A. and was born in London. An artistic prodigy, he was exhibiting at the Royal Academy by the age of 13 and went on to enjoy great popularity during his lifetime. Best known for his paintings of animals, particularly horses, dogs and stags, Landseer is also known for his lion sculptures at the base of Nelson's Column in Trafalgar Square and his portraits, including those of Queen Victoria, Prince Albert and their children. His work is in a range of public collections, including the Tate, the Wallace Collection and the V&A Museum.