author
Mortimer Menpes
1855–1938
An Australian-born artist who built his career in London, he became known for vivid travel books and finely worked prints as well as paintings. His life also crossed paths with James McNeill Whistler, a friendship that helped shape his early artistic direction.
1 Audiobook
Rembrandt
by Mortimer Menpes
About the author
Born in Port Adelaide, South Australia, in 1855, Mortimer Luddington Menpes went on to become a painter, printmaker, illustrator, and author. After moving to London as a young man, he studied art and began exhibiting at the Royal Academy, building a reputation in Britain while remaining closely tied to his Australian origins.
Menpes is often remembered for his connection with James McNeill Whistler, whom he met in the 1880s. Their friendship influenced his early work, especially his interest in etching and in Japanese-inspired design, though the relationship later broke down. Over time, Menpes developed a broad public career that included painting, printmaking, and illustrated books based on his travels.
He wrote and illustrated books that introduced readers to places such as Japan, India, and other parts of the world, combining observation with a strong visual sense. He died in London in 1938, leaving behind a body of work that sits at the meeting point of fine art, travel writing, and illustration.