John Gibson
(1790-1866), SculptorEarly Victorian Portraits Catalogue Entry
Sitter in 25 portraits
Artist associated with 12 portraits
John Gibson, a sculptor who had no formal training, arrived in Rome in 1817 to become an apprentice in the studio of Antonio Canova, Italy's leading sculptor. It was there that he met fellow apprentice, Richard James Wyatt who became a life-long friend. Establishing a studio together, the two would begin the working day with breakfast at Caffé Greco, the regular haunt of the British academy members. Drawing his inspiration from Rome's plethora of antique sculptures, Gibson gradually perfected a distinct neoclassical style that would make his name in both Rome and London. Despite his continued stay in Italy, the Royal Academy elected him a Royal Academician in 1836.
by Charles Edward Wagstaff, published by Paul and Dominic Colnaghi & Co, after Penry Williams
mezzotint and engraving, published August 1845
NPG D34459
by Thomas Herbert Maguire
lithograph heightened with white, 1860s
NPG D34460
by Thomas Herbert Maguire
lithograph heightened with white, 1860s
NPG D34461
by Joseph Shepherd Wyon, after William Theed the Younger
bronze medal, 1874
NPG D2918
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