Wood engraver, painter, typographer and teacher, born in London, daughter of the artist John Hassall and sister of the writer, poet and librettist Christopher Hassall. After attending a Froebel Training College for teachers Joan Hassall was at the London School of Art, 1925–7, Royal Academy Schools, 1928–33, and at Bolt Court, 1931–4. She taught book production at Edinburgh College of Art, 1940–6. Showed at SWE and RE, of both of which she was a member, RA, SWA, RHA and elsewhere. Illustrated many books, including Jane Austen, Robert Louis Stevenson, Mary Webb and many of The Saltire Chapbooks. For almost 15 years before her death poor sight prevented her cutting her delicately detailed blocks. Work held by British Museum. Lived in Malham, Yorkshire.