“Artist and writer lived here 1863-1868” reads the George Du Maurier Plaque. This unassuming blue plaque marks a significant London address. It’s a testament to a life brimming with creativity. George Du Maurier a French-born illustrator and writer lived here. He lived at 91 Great Russell Street from 1863 to 1868. This was just a few hundred yards from the British Museum. A truly inspiring location for any artist.
This period marked the beginning of his remarkable career. He began creating two cartoons a week for Punch. This lasted for 26 years. He wasn’t just an illustrator though. He was also a novelist. His most famous work Trilby published in 1894 captivated readers. It featured the memorable villain Svengali. The name Svengali is even used today to describe someone with manipulative magical talent. Trilby’s impact extended far beyond the pages of the book. The name Trilby even became associated with a type of hat. A whole town in Florida was named Trilby after his book.
Du Maurier’s artistic talent ran in the family. His son Gerald was a famous actor-manager. His granddaughters Angela and Daphne Du Maurier achieved literary fame. Daphne is especially well-known for her novels such as Rebecca and Jamaica Inn. His family’s connection to Peter Pan is fascinating. His daughter Sylvia married Arthur Llewelyn Davies. Their five sons inspired J M Barrie’s Peter Pan.
The George Du Maurier Plaque stands as a small but significant marker. It highlights a remarkable family’s artistic legacy. It’s a reminder of a man who significantly impacted art literature and culture. This plaque quietly whispers stories of a Victorian artist and his influential family. It invites us to reflect on a time when creativity bloomed in the heart of Bloomsbury. Take a moment to appreciate this subtle tribute to a great artist and writer.