Looking for family of Sophia Saunders, an artist who had a Drawing Academy in Cheltenham 1830s-1840s. She had 4 daughters, one was Hebe Saunders born 1820 Cheltenham who became a noted minitature artist - she married Philip Augustus Barnard, also an artist.

I suspect Sophia's husband was Abraham Saunders who was originally a circus tight rope performer but became an artist in the 1830s (I suspect he set up the original Drawing Academy advertised in 1829 which was later taken over by Sophia). I wonder if they became estranged 1830s/40s. My theory is that Sophia was originally Sophia Dukes who married Abraham in 1814 in London.

What confuses my theory is the presence of a Charles Saunders in Pigot's 1830 directory as an artist at the Drawing Academy, and Sophia is also listed at the same address (as Mrs Saunders, but not necessarily married to Charles - unless it is Abraham using another name?).

The Drawing Academy was in Winchcombe Street.

Any information about this Saunders family or the Drawing Academy greatly appreciated.
Caroline.