Franklin D. Roosevelt Portrait Watercolou Signed Mid Century Painting With Birmingham Provenance

Franklin D. Roosevelt Portrait Watercolour by Beatrice S. Bullock, Signed Mid-Century Painting with Birmingham Provenance
Description
Overview
An original early 1940s mid-century watercolour portrait of President Franklin Delano Roosevelt, painted by Birmingham artist Beatrice S. Bullock (1878–1953). This is a unique, hand-painted work capturing Roosevelt at the height of his international prominence during the Second World War.
Subject and Medium
Watercolour on paper, executed with a refined and controlled hand typical of British mid-20th century practice. The portrait presents Roosevelt as a composed and authoritative figure, reflecting both his political stature and public persona.
Composition and Technique
Roosevelt is depicted in a three-quarter bust, turned slightly toward the viewer. His posture is upright yet relaxed, conveying authority without rigidity.
He wears a dark formal suit, white shirt, and patterned bow tie—an ensemble closely associated with his public image. His pince-nez spectacles are carefully rendered, reinforcing both likeness and historical accuracy.
The artist demonstrates particular sensitivity in the facial expression:
A restrained, reassuring smile
Alert, intelligent eyes behind the spectacles
A balance of warmth and authority
The work is executed in transparent watercolour washes, allowing the paper’s luminosity to define form and tone. The restrained palette and subtle modelling reflect a disciplined, observational approach rather than theatrical effect.
Historical Context
Created during Roosevelt’s presidency (1933–1945), this portrait reflects his global significance, particularly within Britain during the wartime alliance with Winston Churchill.
Roosevelt’s image was widely recognised across the UK, symbolising leadership, stability, and transatlantic cooperation. This painting represents a British artistic response to one of the most influential political figures of the 20th century.
About the Sitter
Franklin Delano Roosevelt (1882–1945):
32nd President of the United States
Only president elected to four terms
Architect of the New Deal
Central Allied leader during World War II
Known for his “fireside chats” and public communication
Despite physical challenges, Roosevelt projected composure and optimism—qualities clearly captured in this portrait.
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 verso)
Known for producing watercolours
Recorded in Birmingham museum and archival collections
Donor to Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery (Heathfield Hall, 1938)
Exhibited locally, including at Park House, Handsworth Park
Associated with the Handsworth Historical Society
Her documented regional background adds both authenticity and collector appeal.
Signature
Signed “BB” to the front.
Fully inscribed verso with the artist’s name and Birmingham address, providing strong attribution.
Frame
Presented in a traditional gilt frame with double mount. Ready for display.
Dimensions
Frame: 41.5 cm height × 36 cm width × 2 cm depth
Visible image: 20 cm height × 15 cm width
A cabinet-sized portrait suitable for study, library, or interior display.
Provenance
By Beatrice S. Bullock (1878–1953), Birmingham
Inscribed verso with subject and full artist address
Bears pre-decimal price notation “£10.0.0”
Artist address verified in Birmingham archival records
Exhibited: Famous Lord Hill Museum, 4 April 2026
Curated by Cheshire Antiques Consultant LTD
Likely retained within a Birmingham context prior to entering the market

Collector Appeal
A rare British-painted portrait of Franklin D. Roosevelt, combining political history with decorative quality. The fully inscribed verso and documented Birmingham artist add significant provenance value.
Ideal for collectors of:
Political and presidential portraits
Second World War period works
Mid-century British art
Historically significant decorative pieces

Shipping
Worldwide shipping available. Professionally packaged and fully insured.

Condition report:

Condition Report
Good overall condition
Watercolour surface clean and stable
Minor age-related toning
Verso with historic tape and handling marks
Frame in good display condition with minor corner wear