Without Hands - The Art of Sarah Biffin

Accompanying a major exhibition at Philip Mould & Company, Without Hands: The Art of Sarah Biffin presents the work of the remarkable 19th-century disabled artist who has been largely overlooked by art historians. This book and exhibition celebrate her art, life and legacy. Sarah Biffin (1784-1850) came from humble origins yet rose to fame in the 19thcentury as an exceptionally talented miniaturist. As a working-class, disabled female artist, her artworks - many proudly signed "without hands" - are a testament to her talent and life-long determination. Despite her prolific artistic output, Biffin's life and work has been largely overlooked by art historians - until now. Sarah Biffin was born with the condition 'phocomelia', described on her baptism record as 'born without arms and legs'. She spent her childhood in her family home where she learnt to sew and write. Biffin was later contracted to Mr Dukes, who ran a travelling sideshow, where Biffin would write and paint in front of an a