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?

Comments

[Erika]

I find it interesting that this painting has more of a resemblance to her as a c 16 year old than the photograph it is copied from. It has the same shy, self-contained, half smile. I have always thought that she would have been a lovely person to know if I could have cracked through her shyness.

[Cornflower]

I wonder what she would think of her continuing fame and the part her books have played in the childhood of so many of us.

[Audrey]

I did, years ago, and I remember enjoying it. I didn't know anything about her, and it was a great introduction to all the different facets of her life. (Confess to liking the movie, too.)

[Cornflower]

The film may be a "Hollywood version" of the lady and her life, but it's good entertainment. I would like to read the book as it sounds pretty comprehensive.

[Liz]

Couldn't agree more about The Tailor of Gloucester, which was one of our favourites for years. At Christmas, when the choir sing the Sussex Carol, a friend and I always look at each other and say `Tailor of Gloucester' (I think everyone else thinks we're bonkers) .... no more twist

[Cornflower]

Yellow taffeta for the lining!