Caius Gabriel Cibber was a distinguished Danish-English sculptor, actor, and playwright, prominent in the late 17th and early 18th centuries. Born in 1630 in Flensburg, then part of the Danish Duchies, Cibber initially trained as a sculptor in Copenhagen before relocating to London around 1660.
In London, Cibber gained recognition for his sculpting skills, creating notable works such as the bas-reliefs for the monument of the Great Fire of London in 1666 and contributing to the decoration of St. Paul's Cathedral. His sculptures often depicted mythological figures, renowned for their intricate detailing and craftsmanship.
Beyond his sculpting career, Cibber was also involved in the theatrical arts. He transitioned to acting and later became a successful playwright, contributing significantly to the London theater scene. His most celebrated play, "Love's Last Shift; or, The Fool in Fashion," premiered in 1696 and enjoyed considerable popularity.
Cibber's versatility in both the visual arts and theater demonstrated his multifaceted talent, earning him recognition and respect among his contemporaries. His contributions to English art and culture during the Restoration era were significant, solidifying his place in the annals of British artistic history.
References:
- Redgrave, Samuel. "A Dictionary of Artists of the English School: Painters, Sculptors, Architects, Engravers, and Ornamentists." George Bell and Sons, 1874.
- Walpole, Horace. "Anecdotes of Painting in England: With Some Account of the Principal Artists." Printed by W. Bowyer and J. Nichols, 1782.
- Cust, Lionel Henry. "Cibber, Caius Gabriel." In Dictionary of National Biography, edited by Leslie Stephen and Sidney Lee. Smith, Elder & Co., 1885-1900.