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Grinling Gibbons
Grinling Gibbons was a master wood carver, born in Rotterdam on April 4th 1648, the son of an English father. Recognised as an exeptionally talented carver at an early age, he moved to England in 1667 where he spent the rest of his life. He is considered by many historians as one of the finest wood carvers of all time. His work can be found in Windsor Castle and in cathedrals and palaces throughout England and in the Victoria and Albert Museum in London.
What is not so widely known is that he also produced many exquisite stone carvings, one of which is in York Minster. This statue is of Archbishop Lamplugh and it is of particular interest because it has two right feet. It is impossible to believe that this was a mistake and so it remains a mystery as to why it was carved in such a fashion.
What is not so widely known is that he also produced many exquisite stone carvings, one of which is in York Minster. This statue is of Archbishop Lamplugh and it is of particular interest because it has two right feet. It is impossible to believe that this was a mistake and so it remains a mystery as to why it was carved in such a fashion.
He was a contemporary of many of the rich and famous of his era including the diarist John Evelyn who introduced him to architect Sir Christopher Wren who in turn introduced him to King Charles ll. It was the King who gave him his first commission. Gibbons’ work can be seen to this day in St Paul’s Cathedral.
He lived for many years in Deptford, South East London and is buried in St Paul’s in Covent Garden. He died on August 3rd, 1721.
He lived for many years in Deptford, South East London and is buried in St Paul’s in Covent Garden. He died on August 3rd, 1721.
