Thomas Hill (sculptor)

Thomas Hill (c.1645–1713) was a 17th/18th century English sculptor, based in London.

Dome of St Paul's Cathedral

Life edit

 
Royal Hospital Chelsea
 
Kensington Palace

He was born in London around 1645. As a journeyman mason following the Great Fire of London in 1666 he was most certainly involved in many rebuilding projects. In 1670 he became a Freeman of the Worshipful Company of Masons. In that guild he became "Renter Warden" in 1694 and "Upper Warden" in 1695, finally becoming Master of the Company in 1699. In 1708 he is listed as operating from Chelsea, London.[1]

Many of his major projects were in partnership with Thomas Wise. According to Christopher Wren, who he worked with constantly, he "consulted the stars" before every project.[2]

He appears to retire around 1705 and died in London in 1713.[3]

Works edit

As Master of the Mason's Company in this major rebuilding period Hill is listed as being involved in several major projects:

Family edit

His son "Thomas Hill the Younger" (d.1724) was apprenticed to him then worked under William Stanton.[5]

References edit

  1. ^ Dictionary of British Sculptors 1660-1851 by Rupert Gunnis p.212/3
  2. ^ Proceedings of the Wren Society vol.7 p.140
  3. ^ Dictionary of British Sculptors 1660-1851 by Rupert Gunnis p.212/3
  4. ^ "Settlement and building: From 1680 to 1865, south-east Chelsea and the Royal Hospital | British History Online". www.british-history.ac.uk. Retrieved 2022-07-12.
  5. ^ Dictionary of British Sculptors 1660-1851 by Rupert Gunnis p.212/3