All Christian Scientists are interested in pictures of Mrs. Eddy, but not all pictures of Mrs. Eddy are interesting to those who knew her personally and who see in some of the products designed to picture her features somewhat disappointing images.
In 1910 Mrs. Eddy herself felt called upon to write to the Editor of the Christian Science Sentinel, for publication in that periodical, the following, which is now to be found on page 356 of "The First Church of Christ, Scientist, and Miscellany": "In reply to inquiries, will you please state that within the last five years I have given no assurance, no encouragement nor consent to have my picture issued, other than the ones now and heretofore presented in Science and Health." The letter was dated July 18, 1910.
Portraits of Mrs. Eddy have since been made from already-taken photographs of her; and, faithfully rendered, a few have been satisfactory likenesses. But, too often, The Christian Science Board of Directors is offered for commendation or for purchase portraits of various types and in different mediums, which, though intended to represent Mrs. Eddy, have failed in important characteristics or have reproduced already-made "unlikeness." One such not long since appeared in water colors and in miniature, later in oil, and still later in plaster. It failed noticeably to picture Mrs. Eddy's features, and yet was exhibited in connection with her name. The Directors are always willing to comment upon the authenticity or reliability of likenesses attributed to Mrs. Eddy.
