Mrs. Sutherland OrrAlexandra Orr, also known as Alexandra Leighton; Alexander Sutherland Orr; Mrs Sutherland Orr (23 November 1828 – 23 August 1903) was a Robert Browning biographer. In at least two paintings, she served as a model for her brother Frederic Leighton. Or was born in Saint Petersburg in 1828 because her paternal grandpa, Sir James Boniface Leighton, was the surgeon to Emperor Nicholas I of Russia. Augusta was Orr's younger sister, and Frederic was his older brother. Her parents were Augusta Susan and Frederic Septimus Leighton, both doctors. Her grandfather's business dealings in Russia provided his family with financial independence. Her godmother was Empress Alexandra of Russia. She was schooled while her family traveled throughout Europe. She lost some of her sight when she was sixteen due to rheumatic sickness. She had to have books read to her and utilize an amanuensis after that. She saw her brother in Paris in 1855 and was introduced to his close friend, the poet Robert Browning. She travelled to India as the wife of Sutherland George Gordon Orr, the commander of the 3rd cavalry regiment. They had married on March 7, 1857, so they arrived just as the Indian revolt began. Read More Read Less