Grinling Gibbons 1648 - 1721
This master carver to Charles 11 was renowned in his day - 17th century England - for his exquisite skill and ability in wood carving.
Working in lime wood - a lighter, crisper alternative to oak, Gibbons has never been surpassed and it is said that he was so fine a carver that many of his flowers used to move on their stalk when shaken by a breeze.
Of Dutch/English background, Gibbons transformed wood into art producing
detailed renderings of decorative baroque garlands with birds, flowers, musical instruments, cherubs, foliage, fruit, and lace. His productions often included pea pods which he carved closed until he had received full payment.
This cravat was so intricate that when worn looked realistic.
It was carved in imitation of Venetian needlepoint lace (carved in 1690)
The famous Cosimo panel, which is now undergoing restoration in Florence
" The Room " Petworth House fully carved by Gibbons. Well worth a visit.
Even four hundred years on, there are still many places in England where you can see the surviving works of the great master.
