Edward Robert Hughes (1851
–1914) was a British painter who worked primarily in watercolors, though he also produced oil paintings. He was influenced by his uncle, Arthur Hughes, who was associated with the Pre-Raphaelite Brotherhood. Hughes also collaborated closely with William Holman Hunt, one of the Brotherhood's founders, assisting him with later works such as the St. Paul's Cathedral version of The Light of the World.
Hughes's style was shaped by Pre-Raphaelitism and Aestheticism, often incorporating symbolism and a detailed study of nature. He frequently employed watercolor and gouache. His subjects ranged from portraits of the middle class to more mystical compositions, exemplified by works such as Midsummer Eve and Night With Her Train of Stars, which drew inspiration from poetry.
A perfectionist, Hughes experimented with ambitious techniques and created numerous studies for his paintings. Many of these studies were considered complete enough to be exhibited independently, reflecting his meticulous approach to art-making.
