Around 1848 James Collinson (age 22) and Christina Rossetti (age 17) were engaged; he had converted to Anglicanism. The engagement ended in 1850 when he reverted to Catholicism.

Between 1848 and 1850. James Collinson (age 22). "An Incident in the Life of St. Elizabeth of Hungary".

The Diary of George Price Boyce 1851. 04 Jun 1851. Called on Wells (age 22). Miss Guyson, the model, was with him, a good looking girl. She gave him a ticket for the Portland Gallery, National Institution, which I made use of. A fine picture [See Painting] there by Collinson (age 26), P.R.B., from the life of St. Elizabeth of Hungary (price £240).

Between 1878. James Collinson (age 52). "The Holy Family".