Augustus John, O.M., R.A. (1878-1961)

As a portraitist, John painted some of the most influential and important people of the 20th century. Amongst his sitters were a handful of inspiring women; Lady Cynthia Asquith, Lady Ottoline Morrell, Iris Tree and the Marchesa Casati.

Elizabeth Arden (1884-1966) was one of the most renowned names in the world of beauty and glamour. Born near Woodbridge, Ontario she made her way in business through hard work and dedication. At a time when the beauty business was in its infancy she saw a gap in the market and concocted a series of products to offer clients who came to her treatment rooms. This was the beginning of the make-up and beauty care business on which she was to make her reputation. Working ceaselessly throughout her life she famously claimed, with a degree of accuracy that, 'there are only three American names that are known in every corner of the globe: Singer Sewing Machines, Coca Cola and Elizabeth Arden'.

We are very grateful to Rebecca John for her assistance with cataloguing this work.