Robert Bridges (1844-1930) was a poet, but trained and worked as a doctor until 1882, when a lung condition forced him to retire. After this he devoted himself to literary research and writing poetry. He was appointed Poet Laureate in 1913 and held the position until his death in 1930. He was also a member of the Order of Merit.

The Testament of Beauty was Bridges' last great work, generally regarded as his finest. It sets out his understanding of man's nature, interspersed with his own experiences. It was an instant best seller, and shortly after its publication he was awarded the Order of Merit, 3 June 1929.