Elizabeth Persis Esperance Kirmse (1884–1955) was a British-born artist and illustrator celebrated for her charming depictions of cats and dogs. The younger sister of the noted dog artist Marguerite Kirmse, Persis developed a distinctive career of her own, working in oils, pastels, and etchings.
Much of her output consisted of commissioned portraits of beloved pets, rendered with warmth and lively characterization. In addition to her fine art practice, she illustrated books, postcards, and calendars, expanding her audience beyond traditional collectors.
Kirmse is particularly remembered for her imaginative illustrated interpretations of Shakespearean scenes populated by animal characters, including Shakespeare at the Kennels (1934), Shakespeare with the Pets (1935), Shakespeare at the Zoo (1936), and Shakespeare and the Birds (1938). Her illustrations also appeared in books by Frances Pitt and E. V. Lucas. She exhibited at the Art Institute of Chicago in 1916, reflecting the early recognition of her talent.