Leonardus Joseph Eland, commonly known as Leo Eland, was born in Salatiga, Central Java, in 1884. He gained recognition as a prominent artist during the first half of the twentieth century, renowned for his artistic contributions to the genre of 'Mooi Indië' painting. Leo drew inspiration from his close friend, Carel Dake Jr., a renowned Indonesian painter and the son of a professor at the prestigious Rijksacademie in Amsterdam. Under Dake's guidance, Leo honed his painting skills.

During the initial phase of his life, Leo resided in the captivating tropical islands of Java, Sumatra, Sulawesi, and Bali. Eventually, he returned to the Netherlands and established his atelier in The Hague, where he dedicated himself to creating exquisite 'Mooi-Indië' artworks. Leo's paintings beautifully captured his deep admiration for the landscapes and inhabitants of the Dutch East Indies.

Sadly, Leonardus Joseph Eland passed away in The Hague, leaving behind a remarkable artistic legacy.