Mary Tourtel (1879-1940)

The Original Art of May Tourtel

Mary Tourtel (1897 - 1940) is famous for the creation of Rupert Bear. He appeared on the 8th November 1920 in the Daily Express newspaper. Tourtel was involved in Rupert's advetures right up to 1935 when she had to retire due to her eysight. Rupert continued to grow in the hearts of the British public when Alred Bestall took over from her. Rupert was originaly concieved to rival 'Teddy Tail' in the Daily Mirror was was illustrated by Charles Folkard from 1915.