John, Gwen, 1876–1939

Born in Wales, Gwen John lived a reclusive life and favoured introspective subjects. After studying at the Slade School, she had lessons in Paris from Whistler.

In 1899 she returned to London, but in 1904 she settled permanently in France, living first in Paris (earning her living modelling for other artists — including Rodin, who became her lover), then from 1911 in Meudon, on the outskirts of the city.

Most of her paintings depict single figures (typically girls or nuns) in interiors, painted with great sensitivity and an unobtrusive dignity.