Original works of art

Frith began his career as a portrait painter, having studied at Henry Sass's Academy in London and at the Royal Academy Schools. He also exhibited his work at the British Institution, and by the 1840's had established himself by painting light and entertaining historical and literary subjects. His first exhibit at the Royal Academy, for instance, was "Maluolio Before The Countless Olivia," followed by other subjects derived from popular literature.

Frith's popularity, however, was established with his large paintings of contemporary subjects such as "Life at the Seaside," which was purchased by Queen Victoria and "Darby Day," of 1858. While a watercolor, Frith's portrait of Flora Hastings exhibits a precise technique which is evident in his other work.