Elizabeth Dulau (1873-1954), later Comtesse de Bosdari, was a British translator and salonnière who played a vital role in fostering cultural exchange between Britain and France in the early 20th century. Though often overshadowed by more prominent figures of the period, her quiet influence on literature and artistic circles was considerable.
Born Elizabeth Garnett in London, she came from a family deeply rooted in the arts and literature. Her father, Richard Garnett, was a renowned scholar and Keeper of Printed Books at the British Museum. This intellectual environment shaped her from a young age, instilling in her a love for literature and a fluency in languages. She became particularly proficient in French, a skill that would define her later career.
Elizabeth Garnett married Frederic Dulau, a French bookseller and publisher with a shop in Soho, London. Dulau & Company specialized in French literature and quickly became a hub for Francophiles and visiting French intellectuals. Elizabeth actively participated in the business, using her language skills to translate works and correspond with authors. The couple’s home above the bookshop transformed into a vibrant salon, hosting writers, artists, and academics from both sides of the Channel.
Her translations were significant in introducing French literature to a wider English-speaking audience. While she translated works from various genres, she is particularly known for her translations of plays by Maurice Maeterlinck, the Belgian playwright and Nobel laureate. Her elegant and accurate translations of Maeterlinck’s symbolist dramas, such as “Pelléas et Mélisande” and “The Blue Bird,” helped to establish his reputation in Britain and the United States. These translations were highly praised for capturing the nuances and atmosphere of the original French texts.
Beyond her translations, Elizabeth Dulau was a crucial facilitator of cultural exchange. Her salon provided a space for artists and intellectuals to meet, discuss ideas, and forge connections. Regular attendees included figures like Ezra Pound, Ford Madox Ford, and T.S. Eliot. She facilitated discussions, encouraged collaboration, and played a crucial role in disseminating new literary ideas and artistic movements. She was known for her graciousness, intelligence, and ability to connect people from different backgrounds.
After Frederic Dulau’s death, Elizabeth continued to maintain her connections to the literary world. She later married Count Carlo de Bosdari, an Italian diplomat, further expanding her social circle and cultural influence. Though she may not be a household name, Elizabeth Dulau’s work as a translator and salonnière was invaluable in bridging the gap between British and French culture in the early 20th century. Her commitment to literature and her dedication to fostering intellectual exchange left a lasting mark on the artistic landscape of the time. She remains a testament to the power of quiet influence and the importance of individuals who work tirelessly behind the scenes to promote understanding and appreciation of different cultures.