Peter Watson

Peter Watson born 14 September 1908 (d. 1956)

Victor William (Peter) Watson was a wealthy art collector in England in the 20th century. He is most well-known for funding the literary magazine Horizon, edited by Cyril Connolly, and for being the principal benefactor of the Institute of Contemporary Arts in London. He also provided financial assistance to Francis Bacon.

In 1930, photographer Sir Cecil Beaton began a lifelong obsession with Watson - who was for a time the lover of Beaton's rival Oliver Messel - though the two never became lovers.

Watson drowned in his bath on May 3, 1956. Some have suggested that he was murdered by his lover, Norman Fowler; a rich young American (from whom Bacon stole £300 to go gambling). Fowler died in similar circumstances in the West Indies just a few years later.