Sarah Biffin, later Mrs Wright

Biffin, Sarah

A group of four autograph latters. Vp, 1817–1848

Lot includes: 2 pages on a bifolium (228 x 185 mm, folded). From Biffin to her mother, written from Cheltenham, dated 3 November 1817, signed ("Sarah"), two neat contemporary ink annotations in other hands, hinged to paper; old folds some spotting and minor soiling, closed tears repaired, one area of loss backed with old paper. — 2 pages on a bifolium (230 x 188 mm). From Biffin to William Collard, written from Nailsworth, postmarked 17 April 1820, signed ("Sarah Biffin"), remnants of wax seal, hinged to paper; old folds, minor soiling. — 1 1/2 pages (304 x 222 mm). Written recto and verso on a single leaf, written from London, dated 25 March 1821, signed ("Sarah Biffin"), address leaf joined to bottom, neat contemporary ink annotation in another hand; old folds. — 1 page (204 x 25 mm). Written on the verso of a folded handbill titled "Miss Biffin," which was an appeal for donations for a trust that might "enable her to end her days in peace, for the short time she has to remain in this life of trials," dated 19 June 1948 [but presumably 1848]; old remnants from previous mounting.

Group lots not subject to return.

Elegant letters accomplished by the renowned armless artist.

The present correspondence was penned by Sarah Biffen (or Beffen), "[p]erhaps the most well-known nineteenth-century fairground performer. … Born without hands, feet, or legs, Miss Biffin supported herself by her artistic talent" (LP&FW).   

REFERENCE:

LP&FW, pp. 63–67