Katherine Maltwood

Katherine Maltwood matriculated at the Slade School of Art, University College, London in 1896-97 and studied sculpture. In 1901 she married the advertising manager John Maltwood. From his fortune she was able to concentrate on her art and her interests in ancient history, mythology, Egyptian culture, philosophy, theosophy and Buddhism. They travelled frequently to European countries, the Far East, Northern Africa and both Southern and Northern America. Artistically, she was close to the French symbolists, the Vienna Secession, and Art Nouveau.

In 1927 she discovered the Glastonbury Zodiac, the most remarkable ancient earthen work in Great Britain on the fields where the tales of King Arthur and his Twelve Knights and their Original Round Table had transpired. In 1938 she and her husband moved to Victoria, Canada, because of their disillusionment with Europe. After her retirement Maltwood founded her own museum. The Official Report lists a work submitted by Katherine Maltwood entitled L’Idée Sportive. However, it is probably a title adapted for the occasion. Sculptures from this period that could match her entry include Aspiration (Plucking Feathers from the Eagle’s Tail), The Mills of God or Boy Tickling Trout.