Bright Young Things
59 People in sitter grouping:
The Bright Young Things (or Bright Young People) were a set of bohemian socialites and aristocrats who became notorious in the 1920s tabloid press for their decadent parties, riotous practical jokes and hedonistic behaviour. Their social scene focused on London, where they enjoyed elaborate night-time treasure hunts and entry to private clubs. Favourite haunts included the Gargoyle Club and Cavendish Hotel, but also extended to country house parties and meticulously planned costume balls. The term 'Bright Young People' was originally coined by the tabloid press and applied to the pleasure-seeking young men and women of the interwar generation. Many of them went on to become artists and writers, who in turn became the inspiration for various literary characters. Cecil Beaton’s photographs captured the glamour and creativity of the Bright Young Things, many of whom became his close friends.

Henry Frederick Thynne, 6th Marquess of Bath
1905-1992Landowner and businessman
Sitter in 28 portraits

Photographer, designer and writer
Sitter associated with 361 portraits | Artist associated with 1112 portraits

Diana Mitford (later Lady Mosley)
1910-2003Nazi sympathiser and author; former wife of Hon. Bryan Guinness, and later wife of Sir Oswald Mosley, 6th Bt; daughter of 2nd Baron Redesdale
Sitter in 14 portraits

Edwina Cynthia Annette (née Ashley), Countess Mountbatten of Burma
1901-1960Director of emergency relief services and Vicereine of India; wife of 1st Earl Mountbatten of Burma; daughter of 1st Baron Mount Temple
Sitter in 37 portraits

Bryan Walter Guinness, 2nd Baron Moyne of Bury St Edmunds
1905-1992Poet, novelist and playwright
Sitter in 2 portraits

Lady Diana Cooper (Diana (née Manners), Viscountess Norwich)
1892-1986Actress and writer; wife of 1st Viscount Norwich; daughter of 8th Duke of Rutland
Sitter associated with 39 portraits