Happy Valentine's

From our beautiful Ethel M. Mallinson collection. Valentine's Cupid for J.B. Kitson,1909.

Ethel M. Mallinson (1878–1970) was a very interesting figure in the Leeds art scene in the early 20th century and a leading member of the prestigious Leeds Fine Arts Club. She exhibited pictures at the RSA and RSW between 1917 and 1940. Many of the pictures in our collection relate to her close friendship with Jessie Beatrice Kitson (to whom this Valentine is addressed). Jessie was part of the wealthy and influential local Kitson family; she was sister of the artist Robert Hawthorn Kitson (friend of Frank Brangwyn) and she went on to become first female Lord Mayor of Leeds. Ethel and Jessie travelled together extensively, Ethel sketching to record their travels.