1784–1850Sarah Biffin
Sarah Biffin was born in Somerset to a farm labourer and lived with phocomelia, a condition that left her without arms or legs. Despite limited opportunities for disabled women, she taught herself to write, sew, and paint using her mouth and shoulder.
At thirteen, she began touring Britain under showman Emmanuel Dukes, showcasing her talents at fairs for sixteen years. She was sensationalised as both a wonder and a curiosity and, becoming famous, was even written about by Charles Dickens. Her fortunes changed in 1808 when George Douglas sponsored her artistic training under William Marshall Craig.
Biffin went on to achieve remarkable success, receiving royal patronage and exhibiting at the Royal Academy. Working independently from 1816, she built a professional career through commissions. Although much of her work is now lost or misattributed, Biffin actively promoted herself and sought financial independence, marking her as both a skilled artist and astute businesswoman.