South West Heritage Trust acquires Sarah Biffin self-portrait

A self-portrait by the Somerset-born artist Sarah Biffin (1784-1850) has been acquired by the South West Heritage Trust. Sarah Biffin came from East Quantoxhead, where the baptism register records that she was ‘born without arms or legs’, a rare condition now known as phocomelia.

Her determination was clear from the beginning. She learned to use her mouth to hold implements and was soon highly skilled in sewing, drawing and painting. She went on to train as an artist and became one of the 19th century’s leading painters of portrait miniatures.

Sarah completed the self-portrait in about 1842. In it she wears a fashionable black dress trimmed with lace, and a paisley shawl to which her paintbrush is pinned. On her head is a stylish bonnet bearing a delicately-painted feather. In addition to a brooch, she wears on a chain what is probably the silver medal awarded to her by the Society of Arts.

The acquisition by the South West Heritage Trust has been made possible thanks to very generous funding from Art Fund and the Arts Council England/V&A Purchase Grant Fund. The self-portrait will be going on display at the Museum of Somerset in 2024 and is currently part of an exhibition at The Holborn Museum in Bath about Sarah Biffin’s life and work (open until 14 January).

Tom Mayberry, Chief Executive of the South West Heritage Trust, said: “The self-portrait is an outstanding addition to what is already thought to be the largest collection of Sarah Biffin’s works in any public institution. It is arguably her greatest achievement. She neither hides nor emphasises her disability but treats it as only one aspect of the mature, confident and highly-respected artist she had become. This is Sarah Biffin as she wished to be known.”

Jenny Waldman, Director of Art Fund, said: “Sarah Biffin’s remarkable story is inspiring, and what better place to tell it than Somerset, the place of her birth. I’m delighted that Art Fund has been able to support the South West Heritage Trust to acquire this self-portrait and look forward to its public display in 2024 where the artist’s skill and dedication to art will make a lasting impression on visitors to the Museum of Somerset.”

Emmie Kell, Director, Museums and Cultural Property, Arts Council England, adds: “The Arts Council is pleased to support the Trust in unveiling this important self-portrait for many to enjoy. Our collections are pivotal in sharing the story of the places we live in. Every year, our Purchase Grant Fund - managed by the V&A, and possible thanks to lottery players, allows museums and cultural organisations like the South West Heritage Trust to improve access and strengthen the offer of its permanent collections for generations to come. I can’t wait for the people of Somerset to witness the Museum’s expanded collection of the local artist.”

Leanne Manfredi, National Programmes Lead, Arts Council England/V&A Purchase Grant Fund, Victoria and Albert Museum said: “The Arts Council England/V&A Purchase Grant Fund supports the purchase of a wide range of material for the permanent collections of non-nationally funded organisations in England and Wales. We are delighted that the self-portrait by Sarah Biffin has been acquired by the Museum of Somerset, it will benefit audiences for years to come.”

Sarah Biffin’s journey to becoming an artist patronised by royalty began when a travelling showman called Emmanuel Dukes heard about her remarkable talent. Dukes exhibited Sarah in towns and cities throughout Britain, including in Somerset, charging customers three guineas a time for miniature portraits.

When she was almost 30 years old Sarah’s prospects changed. The Earl of Morton sat for his portrait at a local fair and was so impressed by her ability that he convinced her she should seek opportunities and training in London. Soon she was able to set up a studio in Bond Street and was increasingly visited by wealthy patrons. When the earl died in 1827 her fortunes changed again. Sarah moved to Liverpool where supporters rallied to help her flagging career. But just when her abilities were reaching their highest point, her eyesight began to fail. She died in poverty in 1850, aged 66, and was buried in St James’s Cemetery, Liverpool. 

“It is wonderful that this final self-portrait now finds a home in Somerset, the county of Sarah Biffin’s birth,” Tom Mayberry added. “In its confidence and technical command the picture is a summation of her life and character, and a key document in the history of disability.”  

Thanks to the Arts Council England National Portfolio Organisation scheme the Museum of Somerset will be holding an evening talk about Sarah Biffin, to be given by Tom Mayberry, on Thursday 15 February. The talk will be available in person at the Museum and online. Tickets are available at museumofsomerset.org.uk.