Her maternal lineage traced back to Mandalay, as her mother was the daughter of U Be, a wealthy tycoon who had served under King Mindon.

[3] During her time in London, she attended a reception where she met the renowned British portrait artist Gerald Kelly (1879–1972).

Impressed by her poise and beauty, Kelly persuaded her to sit for a series of portraits, which became notable works in his collection.

Despite serving as court painter to the Royal Family during World War II, none of his works would bring him greater recognition than the 20 portraits of Sao Ohn Nyunt.

Her portrait has remained popular in modern-day Myanmar, and the painting was purchased by Burmese businessman Thet Paing Soe in 2011.