8th Jul, 2021 11:00

Fine & Classic Interiors - Live Online

 
  Lot 46
 

46

Sarah Biffin (British 1784-1850)
Portrait of a military officer

Inscribed on original label verso, oval, miniature, watercolour on ivory.

Dimensions: 9cm x 7cm (3.5in x 2.75in)

* Sarah Biffin was born without arms or vestigial legs and was only 94 cm high. At a young age she was contracted under the service of a showman named Emmanuel Dukes, who presented her at fairs and sideshows as an attraction. Mr Dukes taught Miss Biffin how to paint, holding the paintbrush in her mouth, originally in order to increase her appeal for the public who came to watch her. However, she soon became a talented artist, and a demand grew for her work, which initially consisted of mainly landscapes and portrait miniatures. During her appearance at St. Bartholomew’s Fair in 1808, the Earl of Morton paid Miss Biffin a visit. He was so impressed with her skill at draughtsmanship that he sponsored Sarah and arranged private lessons for her by the Royal Academy painter, William Craig. Her popularity grew and she was accepted into the Royal Academy and awarded a medal by The Society of Artists in 1821. She was commissioned by the Royal Family to produce their portraits in miniature, including Queen Victoria. She was even mentioned by Charles Dickens in Nicholas Nickleby and Martin Chuzzlewit. After her patron the Earl of Morton passed away, Queen Victoria awarded her a civil pension, and she retired to Liverpool.

This is a 'live online' auction - you can bid from the comfort of your own home using our free live bidding service.  Condition reports and additional condition report images can be requested and seen in the 'Condition Report' tab below if present.

Sold for £5,800


 

Auction: Fine & Classic Interiors - Live Online, 8th Jul, 2021

Our Fine & Classic Interiors Sale features a stunning array of fine furniture, silver, paintings, ceramics, glassware and works of art. With collections sourced from estates across Cheshire and beyond, this exciting sale features a rare 18th century Flemish collectors cabinet hailing from Norton Priory, a portrait miniature by renowned artist Sarah Biffin, an array of sensational French clocks and much much more.

 

For further information on any of the lots, or to acquire a valuation of your own pieces, contact us via auctions@wilson55.com

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