Anna Brownell Jameson (née Murphy)
(1794-1860), Writer and art historianEarly Victorian Portraits Catalogue Entry
Sitter in 8 portraits
Daughter of miniaturist D.B. Murphy, Anna Brownell Murphy spent some years as a governess before marrying a lawyer, Robert Jameson, in 1825. The marriage was unsuccessful and he went to Canada to pursue his legal career. She remained in London, becoming one of the first art historians and critics, earning her living by writing and also promoted women's rights. Her husband wanted her to visit him in Canada so she went reluctantly from 1836 to 1838. Her experiences were extraordinary, including crossing Lake Huron in a canoe paddled by five Native Americans. On Anna's return to Britain, her husband granted her £300 a year, allowing her to write in comfort. After his death her friends then supported her.
Comments back to top
We are currently unable to accept new comments, but any past comments are available to read below.
If you need information from us, please use our Archive enquiry service . Please note that we cannot provide valuations. You can buy a print or greeting card of most illustrated portraits. Select the portrait of interest to you, then look out for a Buy a Print button. Prices start at around £6 for unframed prints, £16 for framed prints. If you wish to license an image, select the portrait of interest to you, then look out for a Use this image button, or contact our Rights and Images service. We digitise over 8,000 portraits a year and we cannot guarantee being able to digitise images that are not already scheduled.