Peter Le Lievre

Cow Lane, Saint Peter Port, Guernsey

Peter Le Lievre (1812 – 1878) was a Guernsey Artist, Wine Merchant and Militia Officer.

Biography

Peter Le Lievre was educated at Elizabeth College, he never married and lived all his life at 17 Hauteville, St Peter Port with his two sisters.[1]

Career

Although known today as an artist Le Lievre was better known in his day as a businessman, and as the Lt Col of the Artillery Regiment in the Guernsey Militia. He did however design two lighthouses for St Peter Port harbour, and some of his works were published in his lifetime. It was only after the death of his sister Mary in 1904 that his works were exhibited publicly.[2] His work has gained in popularity since then. In June 2010 a Blue Plaque to commemorate his life was unveiled at 17 Hauteville.

References

  1. "Artist and merchant Peter Le Lievre led a busy life". BBC Guernsey. 19 February 2010. Retrieved 11 May 2011.
  2. Cole, Rona (1988). "Peter Le Lievre (1812-1878)". States of Guernsey, Department of Culture and Leisure. p. 1. Archived from the original on 21 November 2008. Retrieved 11 May 2011. Unlike his better known contemporary, Paul Jacob Naftel, Peter Le Lievre never exhibited his paintings or sought election to the Society of Water-Colour Artists. Either would have brought him recognition, and perhaps even wealth, but his painting remained a private hobby known only to his friends and 'those who have visited his studio'. Since his death, however, Peter Le Lievre's watercolours, which depict with charm, delicacy and accuracy the landscape, buildings and people of nineteenth century Guernsey, have commanded an increasingly high local esteem.

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