Julia Prinsep Jackson, born on January 7, 1846, in Calcutta, India, was a central figure in the artistic and literary circles of the 19th century. Her life story intertwines with the history of photography, art, and literature, given her connections to some of the most prominent figures of her time.
Julia was the daughter of John Jackson, a physician, and Maria Pattle. Her mother belonged to the well-known Pattle Family, which was known for its artistic and intellectual leanings. Following her father's death in 1846, her mother remarried in 1849 to Charles Hay Cameron, a prominent jurist, and the family moved to England.
Julia married twice:
Julia's aunt, Julia Margaret Cameron, was an influential photographer, and it is likely that Julia was exposed to photography through her. Although not as well known for her photography as her aunt, Julia's influence in this field is through her family connections.
After Leslie Stephen's death in 1904, Julia's life became the subject of various literary and biographical works. Her daughter, Virginia Woolf, often wrote about her mother's influence and the emotional void left by her death in her novels. Julia's beauty and charm were frequently commented upon, making her a muse for artists and writers alike. She died on May 5, 1895, in London.