1-192-507 - © London Museum/Heritage-Images

'Slasher' Mary Richardson leaving court, 1914. Richardson (centre), had attacked the Rokeby Venus at the National Gallery in London on 4th March 1914, slashing it seven times with a meat cleaver. This was in protest at the government's failure to give women the vote. Attacks on works of art prompted the closure of many of the country's art galleries and museums to women, and sometimes to the public completely. At places of historical interest the rule of 'No muffs, wrist-bags, or sticks' was widespread. Later, in May 1914, the Royal Academy and the Tate Gallery closed to the public. The British Museum was more flexible, opening to women accompanied by men who would accept responsibility for them. Unaccompanied women were only allowed in if they had a letter of recommendation from a gentleman who would vouch for their good conduct and take responsibility for their actions.