Writers' portraits - Beatrix Potter

    Beatrix Potter (Mrs. Heelis) by Delmar Banner, 1938.

Cumbrian farmer, conservationist, much loved author and illustrator - here, Peter Rabbit's creator is shown towards the end of her life, the background making reference to her second career as a countrywoman and noted breeder of Herdwick sheep.

    Has anyone read the fairly recent biography, Beatrix Potter: The extraordinary life of a Victorian genius by Linda Lear? From a quick whirl round some reviews, it would appear to concentrate less on her writing and more on her expertise as a naturalist, although "Lear does an excellent job in bringing all the various aspects of Potter’s life into focus," (The Spectator). I have only Margaret Lane's biography, read ages ago and enjoyed (and I do like the film, though I think the animated series Beatrix Potter - The World of Peter Rabbit & Friends is magical, especially The Tailor of Gloucester).

    As to the portrait itself, I know it well as I have it in postcard form (and used as a bookmark for many years), but if it's new to you, is the subject as you imagined her?