William Nicholson (artist)

Sir William Nicholson (1872-1949) was a British painter, also know for his work as an illustrator. His partnership with James Pryde, his brother-in-law, was conspicuous for striking graphical work, and woodcuts: they were known as the Beggarstaff Brothers, and their poster work was significant historically.

After 1900 he concentrated on painting, encouraged by Whistler. He was knighted in 1936. Ben Nicholson and Nancy Nicholson were his children; as was the architect Christopher 'Kit' Nicholson.

He was involved in illustrating early volumes from Robert Graves, with Nancy. He wrote and illustrated characteristic children's books: The Velveteen Rabbit (1922) by Margery Williams, and his own Clever Bill (1926) and The Pirate Twins (1929) for Faber & Faber.

External link:

Cover of Clever Bill at http://www.adh.brighton.ac.uk/schoolofdesign/MA.COURSE/01/LIANicholson.html