Rare Beatrix Potter Letters Unveil Author's Private Life and Spending Habits
A remarkable collection of 18 previously unseen handwritten letters by beloved children's author Beatrix Potter has surfaced, offering a fascinating glimpse into her personal finances, property opinions, and health challenges. Preserved by the family of Potter's friend Elizabeth Tyson, these documents are expected to fetch an impressive £20,000 at auction.
Lavish Purchases and Antique Shopping
The correspondence reveals Potter's frequent visits to Tyson's antiques emporium in Ambleside, located in the picturesque Lake District. She regularly sought Tyson's expertise to furnish her famous Hill Top residence. In a candid letter dated 14 July 1933, Potter admits, "I have lost count of what I am spending in your tempting showroom." She adds, "And although I shall, presumably, be very well off when all the duties are paid, I shall have a careful mind." This highlights her awareness of her extravagant tendencies despite her anticipated wealth.
Scathing Critique of Belmont Hall
Beyond her spending, the letters expose a more critical side of Potter. Discussing Belmont Hall, an 18th-century property she later donated to the National Trust, she did not hold back. Potter described it as "an embarrassing Georgian house" that "wants pulling down." She elaborated, "...with a reputation of ghosts and horrid back premises - I simply leave the house out of account." Belmont Hall, situated in Hawkshead, has since been transformed into holiday accommodation, contrasting sharply with Potter's harsh assessment.
Insights into Health Struggles
The correspondence also delves into Potter's personal wellbeing battles. In a November 1938 letter, she informs Tyson, "You will wonder what has become of me. I got so tired of sciatica and kidney chill and colds." She continues, "I went for ten days change to stay with a friend in near Birkenhead - a dull place, but sea air. She put me to bed!" These details provide a poignant look at her health issues late in life.
Auction Details and Historical Significance
Spanning from 1933 to October 1943, just two months before Potter's death, these letters are among the final she ever wrote. They will be auctioned by Mellors & Kirk Fine Art Auctioneers on April 14 at their saleroom in Nottingham, accompanied by a rare signed first edition of The Tailor of Gloucester. Auctioneer Nigel Kirk notes, "It is evident from the letters that Beatrix Potter not only appreciated Elizabeth's knowledge of antiques, but shared her taste for local, vernacular furniture and objects, authenticity and patina." He adds, "There was clearly a friendly relationship between shopkeeper and customer and it is easy to imagine them chatting over 'a good bit of oak'."
This unique collection not only sheds light on Potter's financial habits and property views but also humanizes the iconic author behind Peter Rabbit, revealing her vulnerabilities and personal connections.
