Algernon Charles Swinburne
(1837-1909), Poet and literary reviewerSitter in 25 portraits
One of the outstanding poets of the nineteenth century. Born into the minor aristocracy, Swinburne met Rossetti at Oxford, and became an intimate member of his circle. His unconventional behaviour, alcoholic excess and the erotic nature of much of his poetry aroused controversy; but his lyrical gifts gradually won him recognition as a major poet, and he exerted considerable influence on the literary and aesthetic tastes of his age. Despite his republican sympathies, Swinburne was considered as a successor to Alfred Lord Tennyson as Poet Laureate in 1892. Although not appointed Laureate, he remained popular until long after his death. He spent his last years soberly in semi-retirement in Putney, with Theodore Watts-Dunton.
by Crowdy & Loud, after Elliott & Fry
photogravure, published 5 October 1901
NPG x26688
Helen Bramwell Norris with a painting of Algernon Charles Swinburne
by Poole & Co
bromide print on photographer's mount
NPG x25144
after William Bell Scott
photograph, (circa 1860)
NPG D9960
Algernon Charles Swinburne ('Men of the Day. No. 91.')
by Carlo Pellegrini
chromolithograph, published in Vanity Fair 21 November 1874
NPG D43667
by Elliott & Fry
half-plate glass copy negative, 1890s
NPG x81997
Related People
- George Ashburnham, 3rd Earl of Ashburnham (grandfather)
- Charlotte Ashburnham (née Percy), Countess of Ashburnham (grandmother)
- Lady Mary Agnes Blanche Gordon (née Ashburnham) (aunt)
- Alice Swinburne (sister)
- Edith Swinburne (sister)
- Lady Jane Henrietta Swinburne (mother)
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