The Trust was pleased to unveil a blue plaque today to Mary Ellen Best, the renowned nineteenth century watercolourist. Born in York, she lived for several years at 14 Clifton, York, and produced her finest work here. Later in life she married a German musician and lived on the Continent for many years. Her watercolours, numbering some 1500, are remarkable for their capturing in photographic detail the interiors of rooms, the clothes and fashions, and the small objects of everyday life. There are examples on display in York Art Gallery. The unveiling was performed by Angela Davidson, the current owner of 14 Clifton who has known of the connection for many years, and is delighted to have the history of the house recognised and celebrated.
York TV recorded the event — see their report here.
