Not everybody is happy with Jane Austen’s ‘makeover’ on the new £10 note

2017 marks 200 years since the death of Jane Austen– one of the best-loved English novelists of all time. And to celebrate such an inspirational female figure, both The Royal Mint and the Bank of England have chosen to honour her on a brand new coin and bank note this year.

In fact, this is the first time ever that someone has featured on a circulation coin and banknote at the same time– other than the reigning monarch.

But, all is not well. In an era where airbrushing celebrity photos is par for the course it is perhaps surprising that there has been such uproar regarding Jane Austen’s portrait on the new £10 note.

A portrait of Jane Austen, considered a genuine likeness, compared to her portrait on the new £10 note.

However, many people are upset that she appears to have had the Photoshop treatment; altering her real image to one ‘better suited’ to this modern age. With some even going as far to say she has been made into a Disney princess. Although the difference is not drastic, it is clear that a few minor tweaks have been made.

It seems as though it is not a good idea to mess with the appearance of such a well loved English icon.

We’d certainly be interested to hear your thoughts on the matter, let us know by answering our poll.

 

5 Comments

  1. Frank W Swaine on May 31, 2017 at 3:13 pm

    Flatery is the best comment I am sure if she were alive she would be delighted by the new portrait,



  2. Peg on May 27, 2017 at 10:56 am

    Who’s to say the first image is accurate? Not all portrait artists produce an identical likeness.



  3. David Martin on May 24, 2017 at 6:04 am

    She looks great nicer note in my opinion up to date



  4. Gerald Mortimer on May 23, 2017 at 3:51 pm

    She looks tasty



  5. Nick on May 23, 2017 at 3:40 pm

    The cost and trouble in printing the picture as it appears with rosey cheeks would probably make it too expensive and complicated, it’s not a major change, it’s not as if they have given her long flowing locks, bright eyes and a any other enhancements.