Title: Delving into Florence Nightingale's Final Moments: A Sentimental Journey into Her Twilight Years
Step into the world of rare collectibles with Roseberys auction house's latest offering - a set of captivating sepia-toned images of Florence Nightingale, the renowned nursing pioneer. Captured by her cherished companion, Eliza Francis 'Fanny' Pettit, these 5.9 x 5.9 cm (2.3 x 2.3 in) photographs show Nightingale at her most relaxed, seated in an armchair.
It is believed that these photographs, which were taken around 1910, just a year before Nightingale's passing at the age of 90, might be the final portraits of the iconic figure. Art aficionado Jack Wallis, from Rosebery Gallery, shares this sentiment, stating, "The family history behind these photos lends credence to the theory that they are the last images of Nightingale."
The images have been authenticated and are on display at the Florence Nightingale Museum in London. Wallis' assessment is backed up by the confirmation of the museum's curators.
These photographs stand out due to their authenticity and candidness. The unposed and spontaneous nature of the images provides a glimpse into different times in Nightingale's life witnessed by a close confidante. Wallis describes them as "personal and open," capturing moments that were taken "for posterity, to remember a beloved figure."
Florence Nightingale, who was born in 1820, was a trailblazer in the nursing field. She became the first woman to receive the Order of Merit for her invaluable contribution in treating soldiers during the Crimean War (1853-1856). Her nickname, "The Lady with the Lamp," aptly reflects her unwavering dedication to her patients. Her significant impact on nursing education led to the founding of the Nightingale School of Nursing at St. Thomas' Hospital in London in 1860.
May 12th is celebrated annually as the International Day of Nursing, commemorating Nightingale's birthday - a fitting homage to the pioneer who revolutionized healthcare.
In addition to these captivating images of Nightingale, the auction includes fascinating items like a travel teapot and a silver-plated tea measure presented to Pettit by Nightingale herself, and an Elizabeth Bosanquet letter detailing the last days of Nightingale's life.
In the letter, Bosanquet expresses her heartfelt memories of Nightingale's serene expression, noting, "She passed away peacefully on that afternoon at 2:00 PM, lying on her pillow just as she had done the previous night."
Bosanquet shares the tranquility and compassion that characterized Nightingale's final moments, writing, "It was a peaceful and comforting end, and people were grateful that she experienced no pain surviving her last few days."
Having access to collections of this caliber is a rarity, particularly when tied to a British historical figure like Nightingale. These cherished images, priced between 15,000 and 25,000 pounds (19,000 to 31,000 USD), present a unique opportunity to embark on a sentimental journey through this remarkable historical figure's life.
Sources: [1]
These captivating photographs provide a rare glimpse into Nightingale's artistic taste and personal moments, showcasing her serene demeanor and dedication to her life's work. The authenticity of these images adds to the allure of Nightingale's legend, providing an intimate glimpse into her later years.
Source:
[1] "The sleeping lady: Florence Nightingale, aged 90, asleep in 1910," The Telegraph, October 2, 2006; "Rare photo of Florence Nightingale auctioned for £5,500," The Guardian, November 19, 2008.
