Conference | Grinling Gibbons and the Story of Carving
International experts present the latest research on the carver Grinling Gibbons, exploring themes of materials, production and design in Europe, 1600 to 1800.
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Grinling Gibbons
Grinling Gibbons (1648 – 1721) is Britain's most celebrated wood carver – his name synonymous with an evergreen style of decoration that transformed the interiors in many of the nation's greatest palaces, churches and institutions. He was also a designer and ran a flourishing business supplying carvings and sculpture in stone, marble and bronze. The V&A holds a rich variety of his work, including two of his most important limewood carvings, and marbles from the great altarpiece in King James II's lost Catholic Chapel at Whitehall Palace.
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From the eminent artists and designers of all nations and ages, Gibbons was one of those chosen to adorn the Museum's façade and interiors in the 19th century. His remarkable works, loved for their vitality, technical brilliance and virtuosity, continue to delight, influence and inspire.
Collection highlights
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Carved cravat, by Grinling Gibbons, about 1690, London, England -
The Stoning of St Stephen, woodcarving, by Grinling Gibbons, about 1680 – 1710, England -
Overdoor (picture surround), by Grinling Gibbons, about 1675 – 7, England -
A putto holding the Crown and Coat of Arms of Scotland, in the style of Grinling Gibbons or Arnold Quellin, about 1686, England -
A putto holding the Crown and coat of arms of Ireland, relief, in the style of Grinling Gibbons or Arnold Quellin, about 1686, England -
Sketch for the Valhalla mosaic of Grinling Gibbons, drawing, by John Dawson Watson, 1832 – 1892, Britain -
Portrait of Grinling Gibbons, drawing, by John Smith, about 1690 – 1720, Britain
Features
Grinling Gibbons – an introduction
Meet Grinling Gibbons, Britain's most celebrated wood carver
Grinling Gibbons' limewood cravat
'Deconstructing' Grinling Gibbons' carved limewood cravat
How was it made? Grinling Gibbons' carved cravat
Watch contemporary carver Clunie Fretton as she recreates a section of Grinling Gibbons' famous cravat
The Stoning of St Stephen by Grinling Gibbons
Take a closer look at this intricately carved but grisly scene wooden composition by Grinling Gibbons
"Even to Deception" – lace and fashion in Gibbons' carving
Why did Grinling Gibbons carve lace? And why in the form of a cravat?
Header image: Portrait of Grinling Gibbons, by John Smith after Sir Godfrey Kneller, about 1690 – 1720, Britain. Museum no. E.166-1937. © Victoria and Albert Museum, London