A SELF-portrait by 19th century artist Sarah Biffin, who was born in West Somerset, has been acquired by the South West Heritage Trust (SWHT).

Sarah (1784-1850) came from East Quantoxhead, where baptism register records show she was ‘born without arms or legs’, a rare condition now known as phocomelia.

However, 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 the painting, 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 trust’s acquisition of the painting was made possible thanks to funding from Art Fund and the Arts Council England/V&A Purchase Grant Fund.

The self-portrait, which will go on display next year in the Museum of Somerset, is currently part of an exhibition at The Holborn Museum, in Bath, about Sarah Biffin’s life and work, which runs until January 14.

SWHT chief executive Tom Mayberry 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.”

Art Fund director Jenny Waldman said: “Sarah Biffin’s remarkable story is inspiring, and what better place to tell it than Somerset, the place of her birth.

“I am 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.”

Arts Council England museums and cultural property director Emmie Kell said:“The 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 cannot wait for the people of Somerset to witness the museum’s expanded collection of the local artist.”

Arts Council England/V&A Purchase Grant Fund national programmes lead Leanne Manfredi said: “The 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 nearly 30 years old, Sarah’s prospects changed when 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 and she died in poverty in 1850, aged 66, and was buried in St James’s Cemetery, Liverpool.

Mr Mayberry said: “It is wonderful that this final self-portrait now finds a home in Somerset, the county of Sarah Biffin’s birth.

“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.”

Through the Arts Council England National Portfolio Organisation scheme, the museum will also be holding an evening talk about Sarah Biffin, to be given by Mr Mayberry, on Thursday, February 15.

The talk will be available in person at the museum and online.

Tickets are available on the museum's website here.