Franklin D. Roosevelt Watercolour Portrait by Beatrice S. Bullock (1878–1953), Mid-20th Century, Signed and Inscribed Verso, British School
Description
A mid-20th century watercolour portrait of President Franklin Delano Roosevelt (1882–1945), painted circa early 1940s by the Birmingham artist Beatrice S. Bullock (1878–1953).
The portrait depicts Roosevelt in a three-quarter bust, turned slightly toward the viewer, wearing a dark suit, white shirt and bow tie, with his characteristic pince-nez spectacles. The composition presents a composed and authoritative likeness, capturing the sitter’s calm expression and recognisable features.
Executed in watercolour on paper, the work employs controlled washes and a restrained palette typical of British portrait practice of the period.
Artist
Beatrice S. Bullock (1878–1953) was a Birmingham-based artist active in the early to mid-20th century. She resided at 14 Kingsleigh Road, Handsworth Wood, Birmingham, as recorded on the re
...verse of this work.
She is documented in Birmingham museum and archival sources, and is known to have produced a number of watercolours. She donated work to Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery (Heathfield Hall, 1938) and exhibited locally, including at Park House, Handsworth Park. Her work was later associated with the Handsworth Historical Society.
Historical Context
Painted during Roosevelt’s presidency (1933–1945), this portrait reflects his international prominence as a leading Allied figure during the Second World War. His image was widely recognised in Britain, where he was regarded alongside Winston Churchill as a central figure in the Allied leadership.
Signature and Inscriptions
Signed with initials “BB” to the front.
Fully inscribed verso with the artist’s name and address: 14 Kingsleigh Road, Handsworth Wood, Birmingham.
Also inscribed “President Franklin Delano Roosevelt” and bearing a period price notation “£10.0.0”.
Frame
Contained in a later gilt frame with double mount. Ready for display.
Dimensions
Frame: 41.5 cm high × 36 cm wide × 2 cm deep
Visible image: 20 cm high × 15 cm wide
Provenance
By the Birmingham artist Beatrice S. Bullock (1878–1953), as inscribed verso.
Exhibited at the Famous Lord Hill Museum, 4 April 2026.
Curated by Cheshire Antiques Consultant LTD.
Likely retained within a Birmingham provenance prior to entering the market.
Condition
Good overall condition.
Watercolour clean and stable.
Minor age-related toning.
Verso with historic tape marks and handling wear.
Frame with minor losses to corners but sound and suitable for display.
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Internal Reference: 767
Antique ID Number (AIDN): SA1207185
Dateline of this antique is 1940
Height is 41.5cm (16.3inches)Width is 36cm (14.2inches)Depth is 2cm (0.8inches)
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