Although he was an entirely self-taught artist, he developed a very distinct style of still-life most certainly drawn from the Dutch tradition. Ladell’s paintings have a Victorian richness of colour, which makes them instantly recognisable, and his consistent high quality has ensured their continued popularity. He exhibited at the Royal Academy from 1856 to 1886.

Examples of his work can be seen today in art galleries in Bristol, Colchester, Exeter, Harrogate, Reading and Sheffield.