George Charles Beresford facts for kids

George Charles Beresford (born July 10, 1864 – died February 21, 1938) was a talented British studio photographer. He was originally from Drumlease, a small place in County Leitrim, Ireland. He became well-known for his amazing portraits of famous people.
His Early Life
George was a member of the important Beresford family. He was the third of five children born to Major Henry Marcus Beresford and Julia Ellen Maunsell.
When he was about 13, in 1877, George went to a school called United Services College. A famous writer, Rudyard Kipling, also attended this school. Kipling even based a character named M'Turk in his book Stalky & Co. on George Beresford! George later wrote his own book about his school days with Kipling, called Schooldays with Kipling, in 1936.
After leaving school in 1882, George studied engineering at the Royal Indian Engineering College. He then went to India to work as a civil engineer. But after four years, he got sick with malaria. He had to return to England because of his health. Back home, he decided to study art. He even showed his artwork at the famous Royal Academy.
Becoming a Photographer
Between 1902 and 1932, George Charles Beresford had his own photography studio. It was located in Knightsbridge, London. In his studio, he created beautiful platinotype portraits. These were special types of photos known for their rich tones.
He photographed many important people of his time. These included famous writers, artists, and politicians. His pictures were often printed in popular magazines. Some of these magazines were The World's Work, The Sketch, The Tatler, and The Illustrated London News.
During World War I, George helped out a lot. He gave a large amount of money to the Red Cross. This organization helps people who are hurt or sick during wars. In his later years, he changed careers and became an antique dealer. After he passed away, the National Portrait Gallery bought many of his old photo negatives and prints.
George Beresford was also good friends with other artists. He was close to Augustus John and Sir William Orpen. Orpen was also from Ireland. They often took pictures of each other.
His Family
George Charles Beresford's parents were Major Henry Marcus Beresford and Julia Ellen Maunsell. They got married on April 10, 1861. George had four siblings:
- Lt.-Col. Kennedy Beresford
- Marcus Francis Beresford
- Henry Lowry Lambert Beresford
- Eva Emily Beresford
Gallery
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Virginia Woolf (1902)
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Joseph Conrad (1904)