Charles Lees RSA 1800-1880

With extreme regret the Council have to report the death, on the 28th February, of their esteemed Treasurer Mr. Charles Lees, one of the oldest members of the Academy, who for the last twelve years had devoted his energies to the fulfilment of the duties incumbent on him in a position which, by his sagacity and business habits, he was so well qualified to fill.

Born at Cupar – Fife in 1800, Mr. Lees came to Edinburgh early in life, and after completing his Academical studies as an artist, devoted himself chiefly to portraiture, in which he attained considerable reputation – at the same time painting some important Historical pictures.

 Having studied abroad for some years he returned to Edinburgh, and prosecuted his Art with ability and success, especially bestowing his attention to depicting out-of-door games, some of his works being engraved and having become very popular. Latterly, the veteran artist made landscape – painting his favourite study, the Annual Exhibition at the time of his death containing an effective work by him in that department of art.

 RSA Obituary, transcribed from 1880 RSA Annual Report