Still Life with Vase of Flowers on a Pedestal

Biffin was born without arms or legs but painted miniatures and watercolours ‘with her shoulder assisted by her mouth.’ Her teacher, a Mr Duke, exhibited her at fairs working on her paintings. Her skills impressed the Earl of Morton which led to Royal patronage and a successful career. She received commissions for miniatures from George III, George IV, William IV and Queen Victoria. She moved to Liverpool in 1842 where she continued to work as an artist in Duke Street.