Sarah Stone (c. 1760 – 1844)

Stone was born in London around 1760 and began her career as an artist in the late 1770s. She specialised in natural history illustration, creating detailed and accurate depictions of plants, animals and insects. Stone's work was highly regarded by the scientists and naturalists of her day, and she collaborated with some of the leading figures in the field, including Sir Joseph Banks and Daniel Solander.

Stone's illustrations were renowned for their scientific accuracy and attention to detail, as well as their aesthetic beauty. She used a variety of media in her work, including watercolour, gouache and pencil. Stone's illustrations were published in a number of scientific journals and books, including 'The Natural History of Carolina, Florida, and the Bahama Islands' (1771) and 'The Zoological Journal' (1825-1833).

Despite her success as an artist, Stone faced significant challenges as a woman working in a male-dominated field. For example, she was not allowed to join the Royal Academy of Arts, which limited her opportunities for recognition and advancement. Despite this, Stone continued to produce outstanding work throughout her career, and her legacy as a pioneering natural history illustrator continues to this day.

Stone died in London in 1844, aged 84. Her work can be found in collections around the world, including the British Museum and the Natural History Museum in London.