Maria Flaxman facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Maria Flaxman
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| Born | 1768 |
| Died | 17 April 1833 |
| Nationality | British |
Maria Flaxman (1768–1833) was a talented English artist. She was known for her paintings and for creating illustrations for books. Maria worked closely with her famous half-brother, John Flaxman, who was a well-known sculptor.
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Life of Maria Flaxman
Maria, sometimes called Mary Ann or Maria T Flaxman, was the half-sister of the famous sculptor John Flaxman. She was greatly inspired by his art and helped him with his work during the last years of his life.
Early Career and Travels
For a time, Maria Flaxman worked as a governess for the Hare-Naylor family. She traveled with them to Italy and later to Weimar. This experience likely gave her a chance to see different art and cultures.
Working with Her Brother
In 1810, Maria moved into John Flaxman's home in Buckingham Street, London. This house was near The Strand in Central London. She lived there and continued to assist him until he passed away.
Famous Illustrations
Maria Flaxman is perhaps best known for her six designs that were engraved by the famous artist William Blake. These illustrations were published in the 1803 edition of a book called Triumphs of Temper by William Hayley. Her artworks were also shown at the Royal Academy between 1780 and 1819. Most of these were designs for illustrating poetry and romantic stories.
Artistic Style and Legacy
Alexander Gilchrist, who wrote about William Blake's life, described Maria's work for Hayley's poem. He said her designs were "expressive and beautiful." He noted their "grace of line" and "elegance of composition." These qualities were typical of the style shared by artists like Flaxman and Thomas Stothard.
Today, you can find a self-portrait of Maria Flaxman painted on ivory at the National Portrait Gallery, London. There is also a diary she kept in 1806, which is stored at the Bodleian Library.
