Is it possible to be too successful as an artist. #GordonFrederickBrowne (1875-1932) was a prolific artist and illustrator of children’s books. He was exacting in his craftsmanship and strived for accuracy in his work in all details. He was so busy that success passed him by. His output was enormous – six or seven books a year as well a huge number of illustrations for magazines.

His father, #HablotKnightBrowne, also an illustrator of books is far better known. His father’s pseudonym was ‘Phiz’ and under this name he illustrated a number of books by author, Charles Dickens. It is estimated that Browne produced some 3,660 images during his working life. Browne amassed a huge collection of artefacts to assist in his accurate depiction of items. He concentrated on the text of the work he was working on. Identifying and focusing on the details being illustrated.

I have three pen and ink drawings by Gordon Frederick Browne in my collection. He signed his work GB. With such a vast output, I have yet to find to which story these drawings refer but I will keep looking.

Fame passed him by because he would work for everyone and anyone – even very poor quality publications. Had he focused on the more popular magazines or certain authors, he would likely be remembered today as a very fine illustrator. Even so, I think a lot of people have seen his work when they were young and not realised his vast artistic output.