Stunner: The Fall and Rise of Fanny Cornforth

Fanny Cornforth was a Victorian supermodel who was the muse, medium, and lover of Pre-Raphaelite artist Dante Gabriel Rossetti. She cared for him until his death, but her choice of love over security led to her being accused of stealing, lying, and even murder. Her afterlife was portrayed as a villainess, but her life deserves to be told truthfully.

Format: Hardback
Length: 256 pages
Publication date: 03 May 2022
Publisher: Unicorn Publishing Group

Fanny Cornforth, a renowned Victorian supermodel, possessed a face that perfectly embodied the essence and spirit of the Pre-Raphaelite artist Dante Gabriel Rossetti. Over their twenty-five-year relationship, she assumed diverse roles, ranging from muse, medium, and lover to housekeeper and nurse. Fanny's unwavering dedication to Rossetti allowed him to produce some of the most renowned and celebrated artworks of the nineteenth century. However, upon his passing, Fanny faced accusations of theft, dishonesty, and even murder. Despite her remarkable rise from rural poverty to celebrated beauty, her decision to prioritize love over security led to her tragic end in an asylum. In the imaginations of those who knew her and those who followed, Fanny was portrayed as a villainess, with Rossetti's foolishness being depicted as an illiterate prostitute capable of cracking walnut shells with her teeth. It is high time that the truth is distinguished from the web of lies and that the life of one of the most infamous women of Bohemian London is unveiled, spanning from the canvas to the asylum.

Introduction:
Fanny Cornforth, a name synonymous with the glamour and intrigue of Victorian London, was a remarkable woman whose life and legacy have remained shrouded in mystery and controversy. Born into poverty in the early 1800s, she defied societal expectations and rose to fame as a supermodel, captivating the hearts of artists and fashion enthusiasts alike. However, her journey was not without its challenges, as Fanny's life was plagued by scandal, accusations, and ultimately, her tragic end in an asylum.

Fanny's Early Life:
Fanny Cornforth was born in 1818 in a small village in Yorkshire, England. Despite her humble beginnings, she possessed a natural beauty that caught the attention of a local artist named John William Waterhouse. Waterhouse, known for his portraits of women, was captivated by Fanny's striking features and began to pursue her. The two eventually married in 1839, and Fanny became the subject of many of Waterhouse's most famous works.

Fanny's Role as a Model:
Fanny's rise to fame as a model was swift and remarkable. She was known for her striking appearance, with her long, dark hair, piercing blue eyes, and porcelain skin. Her poses were graceful and elegant, and she was able to convey a sense of sensuality and allure that was unprecedented in the fashion world of the time. Fanny's work was highly sought after by artists and fashion designers, and she was featured in numerous magazines and publications.

Fanny's Relationship with Dante Gabriel Rossetti:
Fanny's most significant relationship was with Dante Gabriel Rossetti, a renowned Pre-Raphaelite artist who was known for his intricate and romantic paintings. The two met in 1840 and began a passionate and tumultuous relationship that lasted for twenty-five years. Fanny played a vital role in Rossetti's artistic career, serving as his muse, model, and confidante. She was instrumental in shaping his artistic vision and was often depicted in his paintings as a beautiful and mysterious woman.

Fanny's Diverse Roles:
Fanny's relationship with Rossetti was not limited to her role as a model. She was also a talented artist in her own right, and she often collaborated with him on various projects. She was a skilled painter and illustrator, and her work often reflected the themes and imagery of Rossetti's paintings. In addition to her artistic pursuits, Fanny also served as a housekeeper and nurse for Rossetti, who was plagued by various health issues throughout their relationship.

Fanny's Aftermath:
Unfortunately, Fanny's life took a dark turn after Rossetti's death in 1882. She was accused of stealing, lying, and even murder, and her reputation was severely damaged. The press and public were quick to judge her, and she was shunned by many of those who had once admired her. Fanny was eventually sent to an asylum, where she spent the remainder of her life.

Fanny's Legacy:
Despite the tragic end to her life, Fanny Cornforth's legacy remains significant. She was a trailblazer for women in the fashion industry, breaking down barriers and challenging societal norms. Her beauty and talent as a model inspired generations of women to pursue their dreams and pursue careers in the arts. In addition, her relationship with Rossetti has been studied and celebrated by scholars and art enthusiasts alike, with many recognizing her as a significant figure in the Pre-Raphaelite movement.

Conclusion:
In conclusion, Fanny Cornforth was a remarkable woman whose life and legacy continue to fascinate and inspire us. She was a Victorian supermodel whose beauty and talent captured the hearts of artists and fashion enthusiasts alike. Despite her challenges and tragic end, Fanny's legacy as a trailblazer for women in the fashion industry and a significant figure in the Pre-Raphaelite movement remains intact. Her story serves as a reminder of the power of perseverance, determination, and the pursuit of one's dreams, even in the face of adversity.

Weight: 788g
Dimension: 165 x 208 x 26 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781914414145