Art of Illustrator Frances Brundage

Born in 1854 in Newark, New Jersey to Rembrandt Lockwood and Sarah Ursula Despeaux,  Frances Isabelle Lockwood 

became an illustrator of postcards. She was best known for the cherub faces of children who appeared on postcards for Christmas, 

Easter, Valentine's Day and any occasion you can think up. 

Frances created beautiful women, stunning fashion, whimsical children, fluffy puppies and kittens for calendars, fans 

               4-Part Fan by Frances Brundage Published by Raphael Tuck and Sons, Ltd marked
and paper dolls. 

                          PAPER DOLLS to Cut Out & Paint - Frances Brundage - Saafield 1920s

She also illustrated several books, Arabian Nights, Robin Hood and stories of King Arthur to name a few. She illustrated the novels of  Robert Louis Stevenson and Louisa May Alcott. 

Francis was trained by her father Rembrandt Lockwood who painted church murals, miniatures,  portraits, and was a very skilled wood engraver. At 17 she had to work to support her family when Rembrandt, her father left their home. 

Her first sale as a professional was a sketch she made after reading a poem by Louisa May Alcott to author Louisa May Alcott.

She married artist William Tyson Brundage in 1884 whom she often worked with on projects. 

              Will and Frances Brundage/Blue Lantern Studio — Corbis From "The Arabian Nights," circa 1893

Francis would sign her work with her full signature, on occasion with just an initial and sometimes not at all. 

This week enjoy the art of Frances Brundage.