A Swiss-Born Artist's Journey Through Time

Charles de Sousy Ricketts, a versatile English artist, illustrator, author, and printer, left an indelible mark on the art world. Born in Geneva to a French mother and an English father, Ricketts' work is characterized by its eclectic blend of styles, making him a fascinating figure in the realm of art.

Early Life and Education

Ricketts began his artistic journey at the City and Guilds Technical Art School in Lambeth in 1882, following the demise of both his parents. This marked the inception of his lifelong partnership with Charles Shannon, a painter and lithographer, who would be his companion in both art and life.

The Vale Press and Notable Collaborations

The duo founded The Dial, a magazine that ran for five issues from 1889 to 1897, and the Vale Press, named after their house in Chelsea, London. Ricketts' work with the Vale Press, which included a complete Shakespeare in 39 volumes, showcased his exceptional skill as a book designer and typographer.

• Ricketts was one of two well-known illustrators of Oscar Wilde's work, alongside Aubrey Beardsley.
• He painted the hero of Wilde's short story, "The Portrait of Mr. W. H.", in the style of Clouet.
• Ricketts' principal pictures in public galleries include "The Death of Don Juan" (Tate Gallery), "The Plague" (Musée du Luxembourg, Paris), and "Montezuma" (Manchester Art Gallery).

A Celebrated Designer for the Stage

Ricketts' work in theatre as a set and costume designer earned him the title of "infallible" by The Times. Notable plays he worked on include Oscar Wilde's Salome (1906), Laurence Binyon's Attila (1907), and Maurice Maeterlinck's The Betrothal (1920).

Legacy and WahooArt

Today, Ricketts' work can be found in various museums and galleries. To explore his art and that of other masters, visit [https://WahooArt.com](https://WahooArt.com), where you can discover a vast collection spanning from the 12th to the 20th century. For a deeper dive into Ricketts' life and work, check out [https://WahooArt.com/Art.nsf/O/A@D3AUE3](https://WahooArt.com/Art.nsf/O/A@D3AUE3), offering a comprehensive look at his artistic journey.

• View Ricketts' artwork on WahooArt: [https://WahooArt.com/@/Charles De Sousy Ricketts](https://WahooArt.com/@/Charles De Sousy Ricketts)
• Explore the Vale Press's work: [https://WahooArt.com/Art.nsf/O/A@D3AUE3](https://WahooArt.com/Art.nsf/O/A@D3AUE3)

Conclusion

Charles de Sousy Ricketts, a Swiss-born artist with a penchant for the eclectic, has left an enduring legacy in the art world. Through his work with the Vale Press and his celebrated designs for the stage, Ricketts continues to inspire artists and art enthusiasts alike. Delve into the world of Ricketts and other masters through WahooArt's extensive collection.