Francis Seymour Haden

Sir Francis Seymour Haden (1818–1910) was a British surgeon and etcher, born in London. Renowned as a significant figure in 19th-century printmaking, Haden played a pivotal role in the etching revival. Although initially trained as a physician, his passion for art led him to become a self-taught etcher. Haden's work primarily focused on landscapes and genre scenes, and he was associated with the "Painter-Etchers," a group dedicated to elevating the status of etching as a legitimate art form. Notable pieces include "Breaking up of the Agamemnon" (1866). Haden's technical innovations and advocacy for the medium's artistic potential greatly influenced the art world of his time, leaving a lasting impact on the practice of etching in the 19th century.