Google Doodle Celebrates ‘Master of Nonsense’ Edward Lear’s Birthday Bicentenary

Master of nonsense rhyme and limericks, Edward Lear's 200th birthday is celebrated in the latest google doodle with a graphic representation of his most famous work, The Owl and the Pussy Cat.

Born into a middle-class family in the village of Holloway on 12 May, 1812, Lear was the 21st child of Ann and Jeremiah Lear.

Though he had an unpleasant childhood filled with diseases and financial troubles, Lear became an accomplished artist and even the drawing teacher to Queen Victoria.

As a child, he had suffered several health problems including epilepsy, bronchitis, asthma and depression.

After the split of his family, in his mid-teens, he began to earn a living by drawing sketches and illustrations.

One of his early publications, Illustrated Excursions in Italy, was greatly appreciated by the Queen Victoria.

Lear travelled widely in his life and had visited Greece, Egypt, India and Ceylon and produced many colour wash drawings.

Known as the pioneer of limericks, the publication of his A Book of Nonsense in 1846 immensely helped popularising the form.

His most famous literary work on nonsense, The Owl and the Pussycat, was written in 1867 for the family of the Earl of Derby.

Another work, Nonsense Songs and Stories, was published after his death in 1888.

Though he was a popular artist, poet and illustrator of his time, recognition came to him as an accomplished artist after the Royal Academy exhibition of his artwork in 1985.

His death centenary was marked in Britain in 1988 with a set of Royal Mail stamp and an exhibition at the Royal Academy.

Bicentenary of his birthday is celebrated across the world on Saturday with a range of events such as exhibitions, lectures including an International Owl and Pussycat Day.