Franklin D. Roosevelt Mid-Century Watercolour Portrait  Signed British School, Fully Inscribed Verso with Birmingham Address and Exhibition History

Subject and Medium 🎨

An original circa early 1940s mid-20th century watercolour on paper portrait of President Franklin Delano Roosevelt, executed by the British artist Beatrice S. Bullock (1878–1953).

A unique hand-painted work capturing the likeness of one of America’s most influential presidents at the height of his international prominence. 

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Composition & Technique 🖌️

Roosevelt is presented in a composed three-quarter bust, turned slightly toward the viewer, creating an immediate yet dignified presence. His posture is upright but relaxed, conveying confidence without rigidity and authority without distance.

He is depicted wearing a dark formal suit jacket, crisp white shirt, and patterned bow tie, closely aligned with his public image during the 1930s–40s. The inclusion of his pince-nez spectacles reinforces both period accuracy and the instantly recognisable character of the sitter.

The artist captures Roosevelt’s expression with sensitivity:

• A controlled, gentle smile suggesting reassurance and quiet optimism
• Alert, attentive eyes behind the spectacles
• A balanced expression combining warmth with authority

This is not a ceremonial or distant likeness, but a portrayal of Roosevelt as a composed and approachable leader.

Technically, the work is executed in transparent watercolour washes, allowing the paper’s natural luminosity to model the face. The restrained palette and controlled brushwork are characteristic of mid-century British practice.

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Historical Context 🌍

This portrait was produced during Roosevelt’s presidency (1933–1945), when his image held strong international significance. In Britain, he was regarded as a central Allied figure alongside Winston Churchill.

His leadership during the Second World War, particularly through economic and military cooperation, made him widely recognised and respected.

The work reflects a transatlantic cultural response, illustrating how Roosevelt’s image extended beyond the United States into British artistic and social awareness.

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About the Sitter 🇺🇸

Franklin Delano Roosevelt (1882–1945) remains one of the most transformative leaders in American history:

• 32nd President of the United States
• The only president elected to four terms (1933–1945)
• Architect of the New Deal
• Principal Allied leader during the Second World War
• Known for his “fireside chats” which established a direct connection with the public

Despite the effects of polio, Roosevelt projected strength, composure, and optimism—qualities reflected in this portrait.

His attire and expression present him as both statesman and intellectual, capturing not only his likeness but his public persona: steady, thoughtful, and quietly authoritative.

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About the Artist 👩🎨

Beatrice S. Bullock (1878–1953) was a Birmingham-based artist active in the early to mid-20th century.

• Resident of 14 Kingsleigh Road, Handsworth Wood, Birmingham (as inscribed)
• Known to have produced numerous watercolours
• Recorded in Birmingham museum and archival sources
• Donated work (Heathfield Hall, 1938) to Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery
• Exhibited locally, including at Park House, Handsworth Park
• Associated with the Handsworth Historical Society

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Signed ✍️

Signed with initials “BB” to the front.

Fully inscribed verso with the artist’s name and complete Birmingham address, providing documentary support for attribution.

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Framed 🖼️

Presented in a traditional later gilt frame with double mount, enhancing the period character and ready for display.

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Size 📏

Frame: 41.5 cm height × 36 cm width × 2 cm depth
Visible image: 20 cm height × 15 cm width

A refined cabinet-sized portrait, suitable for a study, library, or curated interior.

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Provenance 📜

By the Birmingham artist Mrs Beatrice S. Bullock (1878–1953), of 14 Kingsleigh Road, Handsworth Wood, Birmingham, as inscribed verso.

The reverse bears the inscription “President Franklin Delano Roosevelt” alongside the artist’s full name and address.

Further inscribed with pre-decimal notation “£10.0.0”, consistent with mid-20th century pricing.

The artist’s address is independently recorded in Birmingham archival sources.

Exhibited on temporary loan as part of 4th April 2026 Exhibition with the dealer Famous Lord Hill Museum.
Curated by: Cheshire Antiques Consultant LTD

Likely retained within a Birmingham context prior to entering the secondary market.

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Why You’ll Love It ⭐

• A period depiction of one of America’s most significant presidents
• Captures Roosevelt’s calm, intelligent, and reassuring character
• Fully inscribed verso with artist’s name and address
• A British artistic portrayal of Roosevelt
• Strong historical and transatlantic interest
• Combines political history with decorative appeal
• Ideal for collectors of presidential and Second World War material
• One-of-a-kind mid-century artwork
• Ready to display with enduring interior presence

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Condition Report 🔍

Good overall condition.

• Watercolour remains clean and stable
• Minor age-related toning consistent with period
• Verso with historic tape and handling marks
• Frame and mount in good overall order with minor losses to corners