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See Rebecca Stevenson’s installation ‘Inspired by nature: Mary, Maria, Marianne’ on display in the Upper Ante at Blickling Estate in Norfolk this summer.The set of three busts depicts imagined portraits of artists and botanists, Mary Delany (1700-1788), Maria Sibylla Merian (1647-1717), and Marianne North (1830-1890).
These three pioneering women made important contributions to the world of science, recording plants and insects before the time of photographic documentation. All three worked at a time when it was difficult for women to receive formal training in either art or science.
Constructed from a composite resin material, these three striking portraits reference the women’s work through the addition of beautiful wax floral details.
The sculptures will be on display along with Blickling’s copy of Maria Sibylla Merian’s book 'Dissertation sur la generation et les transformations des insectes de Surinam', 1726. The book came to Blickling as part of an extensive collection inherited from Sir Richard Ellys in the early 1740s.
Be an artist and contribute to the growing visitor artwork extending down the length of the Long Gallery, echoing the spirit of these three remarkable women.
Exhibition takes place daily from 19 July to 22 October 2025 daily. House opens at 11am, last entry is at 3.30pm.
Standard admission prices apply, no booking required. Free entry for National Trust members and under 5s.
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Event Venue & Nearby Stays
Blickling, NR11 6NF Aylsham, United Kingdom, Coltishall, United Kingdom
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