Biography

Caroline Watson was born in London and is considered one of the most skilful engravers working in late 18th century England. Watson studied under her father, Irish engraver James Watson, and excelled particularly at the stipple method which is a dotted technique allowing for a rich tonal texture. She is considered the first British woman to work as a professional engraver and was appointed ‘Engraver to the Queen’ by Queen Charlotte. She was particularly accomplished in reproductions of miniatures, and many of her costumers were women as they made up a significant portion of print consumers at that time. Watson died in London after ill health caused her career to wind down.